Goga Bitadze

Goga Bitadze Bio

Goga Bitadze (Georgian: გოგა ბითაძე; born 20 July 1999) is a Georgian professional basketball player for the Orlando Magic of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Listed at 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 meters) and 250 pounds (113 kilograms), he plays the center and power forward positions. Bitadze was drafted 18th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2019 NBA draft. Born in Sagarejo, Georgia, he started playing basketball professionally with VITA Tbilisi in the VTB United League. In 2015, he moved to Serbian club Mega Basket and was loaned to Serbian League team Smederevo 1953 in the following year.

Early Life and Background

Goga Bitadze was born in Sagarejo, a town in eastern Georgia. His father was a professional basketball player whose career was cut short by injury. Although Bitadze did not watch basketball in his childhood, he started playing the game when he was six years old, inspired by his height and active nature. As he became more involved in basketball, he began to idolize Georgian players Zaza Pachulia and Tornike Shengelia, as well as NBA stars Pau Gasol and Shaquille O’Neal. On 31 May 2013, Bitadze scored 17 points to help his school team Hyundai win the national under-14 championship over Gori. He also played in the Georgian under-16 league for three years, averaging 23.1 points, 16.6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 3.8 blocks per game in his final season with Hyundai. Through his early career, Bitadze trained in the junior ranks of Georgian club VITA Tbilisi.

Path to Basketball

In the 2015–16 season, Bitadze played professionally for VITA Tbilisi in the VTB United League, making his debut at age 16 and becoming the youngest player in league history. He averaged 2.8 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in 13.8 minutes per game over six games. On 2 December 2015, Bitadze signed with Mega Basket of the Basketball League of Serbia and ABA League. He was drawn to the club because it had produced many NBA players like Nikola Jokić and Ivica Zubac. In December 2015, he helped Mega’s junior team win the Torneo Città di Roma and qualify for the 2015–16 Adidas Next Generation Tournament. For the 2016–17 season, Bitadze was loaned to Serbian club Smederevo 1953, where he averaged 10.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. He returned to Mega entering the 2017–18 season and mainly played with the senior team, averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game in the ABA League.

Goga Bitadze Career

Early Career (2015–2019)

Bitadze continued to develop his skills with Mega Basket and had a breakout season in 2018–19. He was loaned to Montenegrin club Budućnost, competing in the EuroLeague, where he averaged 12.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. His performance earned him the EuroLeague Rising Star award for the best under-22 player in the EuroLeague. On 20 April 2019, Bitadze declared for the 2019 NBA draft and was drafted by the Indiana Pacers with the 18th overall pick.

Breakthrough (2019–2023)

Bitadze made his NBA debut on 28 October 2019, coming off the bench in a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played for the Indiana Pacers until February 2023, when he was waived after three-and-a-half seasons. During his time with the Pacers, he showcased his skills and contributed to the team’s performance. On 13 February 2023, Bitadze signed with the Orlando Magic, marking the next chapter in his professional career.

Notable Works and Milestones

Goga Bitadze’s signature achievements include being named EuroLeague Rising Star in 2019, winning the Montenegrin Cup, and being recognized as the Most Valuable Player in multiple leagues. He has also been a key player for the Georgian national basketball team, participating in various international competitions.

Goga Bitadze Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Goga Bitadze has received several nominations for his outstanding performances in basketball, particularly during his time in the EuroLeague and ABA League.

Goga Bitadze Awards Won

Goga Bitadze has won multiple awards, including the EuroLeague Rising Star, Montenegrin Cup winner, and several MVP titles in various leagues. His accomplishments highlight his talent and impact on the court.