LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE MAGIC

Sports stars locally, nationally helping others amid coronavirus outbreak

We’re seeing it once again. Sports teams and their athletes stepping up during trying times of turmoil and trouble. Just as they always do.

We’re seeing it internationally, nationally and right here in Central Florida as professional sports leagues are suspending operations amid the lifethreatening, economy-devastating spread of the coronavirus.

We saw the DeVos family, owners of the Orlando Magic, announce Monday they are funding a $2 million compensation package that will pay hourly employees for the rest of the regular season for games missed due to this global pandemic. Among those 1,800 hourly employees being paid are the Magic’s own employees along with city-owned Amway Center employees and employees of the Orlando Solar Bears and Lakeland Magic.

And there’s more help coming. According

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to Magic spokesperson Joel Glass, several Magic players have also said they want to donate to help those Magic part-timers who need it most.

Said Orlando Magic chairman Dan DeVos, “The people behind our teams are family to us and it’s our honor to provide assistance to those adversely impacted during this trying time.”

It seems the “Magic Above All” mantra is more than just a marketing campaign after all. The team is showing there truly is a shared passion and sense of teamwork among fans, players, coaches, ownership and, yes, even the hourly workers who are living paycheck to paycheck.

Way to go, Orlando Magic!

We could damn sure use a feel-good story right about now, and the Magic and many others in the sports world are providing it.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban says he will continue to pay employees of the American Airlines Center as if NBA games are still being played. The Golden State Warriors’ ownership, players and coaches will contribute $1 million to a disaster-relief fund for their arena workers.

“The men and women who work our games at Chase Center are critical in providing an incredible game-night experience for our fans,” Warriors star Steph Curry said. “As players, we wanted to do something along with our