The Orlando Magic's rise in the 1990s was marked by the exceptional pairing of Shaquille O'Neal and Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway, who transformed the franchise into competitors almost overnight. Their synergy led to the team's inaugural playoff appearance during Hardaway's rookie season, and they reached the NBA Finals in 1995. Despite a sweep by the Houston Rockets, the potential of O'Neal and Hardaway was undeniable.

However, the duo's dream team was short-lived, as O'Neal departed for the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, leaving Hardaway to navigate injuries and a less stellar journey. Hardaway's reflection on their time together illustrates the magic they created, a bitter reminder of what could have been for the Magic.