Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black is making significant progress from his ankle injury as the team prepares to begin its preseason schedule next week.
The Magic wrapped up their first week of training camp Friday with their preseason opener against the Memphis Grizzlies set for Wednesday. Black has been limited throughout camp after suffering a minor ankle sprain during the team's voluntary workouts before training camp, but head coach Sean Sweeney provided an encouraging update on his recovery.
Orlando Sentinel reporter Jason Beede shared Sweeney's update Friday via X, formerly known as Twitter.
“#Magic coach Sean Sweeney said Anthony Black (sprained ankle) has ‘definitely made progress’ throughout the week. Black has done non-contact work at a ‘high, full-speed level as of today.’”
Sweeney indicated that Black's ability to increase his workload has left the Magic encouraged about where he stands in the recovery process.
“So, we feel pretty good about where he's at,” Sweeney said.
Black's progress is important for Orlando as it prepares to transition from training camp practices into preseason action. The fourth-year guard is coming off the best season of his NBA career and figures to remain an important part of Sweeney's backcourt rotation.
Article Continues BelowAnthony Black, Noah Penda nearing Magic returns
Black averaged 15 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.4 steals across 64 games during the 2025-26 season, including 40 starts. He shot 44.7% from the field and 33.3% from 3-point range while averaging 29.8 minutes per game.
Orlando has taken a cautious approach with Black throughout training camp, particularly with the team holding two-a-day practices to begin the week.
The Magic also received positive news regarding second-year forward Noah Penda, who has been limited by a hamstring injury. Beede reported that Penda has made similar progress during the opening week of camp.
“They’re both pretty close to being back and ready to go,” Sweeney said about Penda and Black.
Neither player has been confirmed for Wednesday's preseason opener. However, their progress puts Orlando closer to having both available as Sweeney begins evaluating his rotations in game action ahead of the 2026-27 regular season.

