ORLANDO, FLA — A hot, sunny day set the backdrop for one of the Orlando Magic's most highly anticipated fundraisers.

The annual Orlando Wine Festival and Auction brought out crowds of people, fans and Magic players, coaches and staff to the gardens at the Ritz Carlton. It was an evening to benefit the Orlando Magic's Youth Foundation and local nonprofit organization. 

It also provided an opportunity to sample wines and talk basketball with someone who enjoys both.

Ebony Fultz has been the biggest supporter and influence in her son's life and certainly basketball journey. 

A permanent smile encompasses her face as she talks about the best season of Markelle Fultz's career. 

“He’s not at his ceiling, but he’s aged well," Ebony said. "He started his career with a little bit of adversity. The adversity builds you and makes you stronger and wiser. He hasn’t remained stagnant. I still continue to see growth. I think that’s a positive and I don’t think he’s scratched the surface yet.”

After missing the first six weeks recovering from a fractured toe, Fultz took a major step forward in his game averaging high marks in points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, field goal and three-point percentage. With year six in the league wrapped up, Ebony says her son is aging like her favorite wine. 

“I’m a Riesling Moscato girl. It’s sweet, refreshing. It’s good. It doesn’t get you too intoxicated, but it entertains you," she said.

When asked about his enteraining style of play and ankle-breaking moves, she responds, "He gets that from his momma." 

Fultz is expected to be a key piece of the Magic's future plans. Ebony says she's enjoyed watching her son's growth as a basketball player but is most proud of the person he's become. Fultz was the 2022 recipient of the Rich & Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award which honors the Magic player who is most active in the community. 

After the season, Markelle spoke about his level of excitement and optimism in both his individual game and the team's outlook. The next key date to circle is May 16 for the NBA Draft Lottery.