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You are here: Home / All The Lingo / Sports Terms That Begin With ‘M’ / Magic Number

Magic Number

ma*gic num*ber

What Is The Definition Of Magic Number?What Is A Magic Number In Basketball? Definition & Meaning

1. The “magic number” is the number of wins needed by a team in order to advance to make the playoffs or win their division. It is usually coupled with the number of losses required by the closest competitor in order to achieve the team’s goal. When the team wins or their closest competitor loses a game, the magic number decreases by one.

This term is usually associated with sports where games are determined by wins and losses, but not ties.

Examples Of How Magic Number Is Used In Commentary

1. With eight games remaining  in the season, the Bulls still have a small chance to overtake first place and win the division, as their magic number is set at five.

Sports The Term Is Used

1. Baseball
2. Basketball
3. Football

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