Cavs' Donovan Mitchell Drops Magic Defender With Sick Stepback

Cleveland Cavaliers star guard Donovan Mitchell embarrassed Orlando Magic's Noah Penda with a nasty stepback move.

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

In a close game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic, Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell made a highlight-reel play by dropping Magic defender Noah Penda with a vicious stepback move before draining a 3-pointer. Mitchell's athleticism and scoring prowess were on full display as he continues to cement his status as one of the NBA's elite shooting guards.

Why it matters

Donovan Mitchell is one of the most exciting players in the NBA, known for his ability to create his own shot and make highlight-worthy plays. This latest move against the Magic showcases Mitchell's elite skills and demonstrates why he is considered among the league's top shooting guards.

The details

With the game tied at 62-62 at halftime, the action picked up in the third quarter. As the game clock was winding down, Mitchell found himself tightly guarded by Magic defender Noah Penda. Sensing Penda was too close, Mitchell unleashed a nasty stepback move that sent Penda tumbling to the floor. Mitchell then calmly knocked down the 3-pointer, much to the delight of the home crowd.

  • The game between the Cavaliers and Magic took place on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A seven-time NBA All-Star and one of the league's elite scoring guards, currently averaging a career-high 28.4 points per game for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Noah Penda

A defensive-minded guard for the Orlando Magic who was tasked with guarding Donovan Mitchell on the play.

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The takeaway

Donovan Mitchell's highlight-reel play against the Magic showcases his elite scoring ability and why he is considered one of the NBA's premier shooting guards. His combination of athleticism, agility, and scoring prowess make him a constant threat to opposing defenses.