Back in the 2019 NBA Draft, Goga Bitadze was immortalized in a viral photo that starkly captured the disparity between the draft’s biggest star and its lesser-known prospects. Fast forward to 2024, and Bitadze has proved that anything is possible, signing a three-year, $25 million contract with the Orlando Magic.
The image showed Bitadze being completely ignored by reporters, who instead surrounded Zion Williamson , the eventual first overall pick, in the background. NBA stars like Dwyane Wade and Draymond Green urged Bitadze to use the photo as motivation.
Free agent center Goga Bitadze is returning to the Orlando Magic on a lucrative deal, as confirmed by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. This contract is a significant milestone for Bitadze, who has journeyed from being overlooked to becoming a key player in the NBA.
Bitadze, who turns 25 on July 20, was the 18th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He spent his first four seasons with the Indiana Pacers , where he struggled to find consistent playing time and make a significant impact. However, his fortunes changed when the Orlando Magic acquired him in 2023. This move marked the beginning of Bitadze's rise in the league.
In his first full season with the Magic, Bitadze had a breakout year. He started 33 games, primarily due to Wendell Carter Jr.'s early-season injury. Bitadze seized this opportunity, showcasing his abilities by averaging 7.5 points and 1.7 blocks per game as a starter while shooting an impressive 59% from the field. His defensive presence and efficient scoring made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Bitadze continued to build on his success, averaging 5.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game in total for the season. His performance earned him a well-deserved contract extension, solidifying his role with the Magic for the next three years.
Bitadze's journey is a testament to perseverance and resilience. From being ignored on draft day to securing a significant contract with the Magic, he has shown that hard work and determination can overcome any obstacle.
His story is an inspiration to many, proving that no matter where you start, anything is possible with dedication and effort. The Orlando Magic and their fans can look forward to more great performances from Bitadze as he continues to grow and develop as a player.
The Orlando Magic Missed Out On Big Names In Free-Agency
The Orlando Magic had high hopes for the offseason, with fans eagerly anticipating potential big moves following a successful season and a competitive playoff run. With significant cap space, the Magic seemed poised to build something special around their young core of Paolo Banchero , Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs.
However, the free agency period didn’t unfold as planned. Key targets like Malik Monk and D'Angelo Russell were off the board before free agency even began. The Magic also missed out on landing Paul George or Klay Thompson , the two biggest names they were linked to, despite having the financial flexibility to make a substantial offer.
Instead, Orlando focused on securing a solid addition to their roster, signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a three-year, $66 million contract . Caldwell-Pope, known as one of the league's premier 3-and-D players, brings valuable shooting and defensive skills to the team. While not the blockbuster signing some hoped for, he is expected to complement the Magic’s young stars effectively.
The Magic’s inability to land a marquee-free agent is a setback, but it doesn't overshadow their achievements. Finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 47-35 record, the team demonstrated significant progress. Their young core showed promise, and the addition of Caldwell-Pope should help bolster their playoff aspirations moving forward.
While the Magic didn't hit the free agency home run they aimed for, they made strategic moves to enhance their roster. Fans should remain optimistic about the team's direction and the continued development of their promising young core.
Related: 2024 NBA Free Agency Tracker: Live Updates, All Confirmed Signings, Trades, And Extensions
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