Goga Bitadze Finds a New Home with the Orlando Magic

Orlando, FL—Selected with the 18th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Goga Bitadze’s career has had its ups and downs, but the 6-foot-11 center has finally found stability and a place to call home with the Orlando Magic.

A New Start in Orlando

After three and a half years with the Indiana Pacers, Bitadze was released and soon after joined the Magic off the waiver wire. He spent the final 17 games of the 2023 season with Orlando on a minimum contract, impressing enough to be brought back for the entire 2023-24 season.

Opportunity Knocks: Bitadze Steps into the Starting Lineup

Just four games into the season, the Magic lost Wendell Carter Jr. to injury, opening the door for Bitadze to step into the starting lineup. The Magic’s physical defense took center stage, and Bitadze played a crucial role as the team rattled off nine consecutive wins—a streak that tied a franchise record.

During that 20-game stretch as a starter, Bitadze averaged 8.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. Over the full season, he appeared in 62 games, starting 33, and averaged 5 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists, shooting a career-high 60.3% from the field.

Returning to Orlando: Bitadze Signs Long-Term Contract

Following his breakout season, Bitadze entered free agency with significant interest from other teams but ultimately decided to stay in Central Florida. Goga signed a three-year, $25 million contract with the Magic, citing his deep connection to the team and the city as key reasons for his return.

“I still feel like I’m in debt with this team for how much they have done for me and my family,” Bitadze shared. “When you’re not happy somewhere and feel like nobody wants you, it changes your whole life. Here, I feel appreciated, and it’s changed my whole outlook on life, not just basketball.”

Culture of Player Development and Team Unity

Since hiring Jamahl Mosley in 2021, the Magic have built a culture centered around player development and team-oriented play. Players consistently express admiration for the organization, and Bitadze is no exception.

“You can feel it in this facility and the arena when you walk in. We feel great with each other,” he said on Media Day. “Some guys are willing to sacrifice shots for others. We all understand our roles and play around that—it’s what makes us a team.”

Stepping Up Again in Carter Jr.’s Absence

Now 11 games into the 2024-25 season, Bitadze has once again found himself in the starting lineup due to Wendell Carter Jr.’s recent injury (plantar fascia strain). When asked about the adjustment, Bitadze was unfazed.

“It’s not that hard,” he explained. “I just put the work in whenever my name is called. If I have to start, I’ll do what’s necessary for the team to get the win. As long as we’re winning, everybody is happy.”

In the past four games as a starter, Bitadze has averaged 10.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 blocks, and is shooting an impressive 66.7% from the floor.

Coach Mosley Praises Bitadze’s Consistency and Work Ethic

“He’s just steady,” said Head Coach Jamahl Mosley about Bitadze. “He stays ready the entire time. He doesn’t say a word; when he’s asked to do something, he just goes out and does it. He’s a great rim protector, does a fantastic job in the pick-and-roll, and helps facilitate the offense, getting guys in position.”

A Key Piece of the Magic’s Future

Bitadze has proven himself to be a valuable contributor, a great teammate, and a hardworking individual who wants to see his team succeed. No matter the role he’s called to fill, Goga Bitadze will continue to make an impact, uplifting those around him and giving his all on the court. His dedication to the Magic and the city of Orlando make him a cornerstone of the team’s future.