Goga Bitadze Shines as Orlando Magic Edge Past Indiana Pacers

The Orlando Magic secured a narrow victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, elevating their season record to 7-6 and positioning them third in the Eastern Conference standings. This triumph was particularly significant for Goga Bitadze, a former player for the Pacers, who played a pivotal role in the win. Drafted by the Pacers as the 18th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Bitadze spent three and a half seasons with Indiana before being waived midway through the 2022-23 season.

During his tenure with the Pacers, Bitadze was primarily utilized as a role player. His most productive season was in 2021-22, where he temporarily secured a starting position, appearing in 50 games and averaging 7.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. However, his performance declined the following season, averaging just 3.3 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. This led to him being released by the team.

After his release, Bitadze was quickly picked up by the Orlando Magic. «I prayed about this day that I would get a chance to play with these guys and beat my old team,» Bitadze expressed in a post-game interview with Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel. «Beating Indiana always feels great. It comes on God’s timing.»

On Wednesday, Bitadze scored a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while also contributing one assist, two blocks, and a steal, making him a key factor in the Magic’s 94-90 win over the Pacers. Teammate Franz Wagner outscored Bitadze, but his contributions, especially on defense, were crucial.

The recent matchup was not the first time the Magic faced off against the Pacers this season. The teams have clashed three times, with the Magic defeating the Pacers on two occasions. A standout game for Bitadze also occurred earlier this season, where he scored 10 points and secured 12 rebounds against his former team.

Bitadze, originally from Georgia—the country, not the U.S. state—contended with limited opportunities during his stint with the Pacers, in part due to a crowded frontcourt. Despite injuries and stiff competition from players like Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner, his minutes remained restricted. His transition to the Magic has provided a new lease on his career, allowing him more consistency and time on the court.

«We have beat them a lot of times the last couple of games,» Bitadze stated, acknowledging the team’s recent success against Indiana. His performance reflects his growing impact within the Magic’s lineup, cementing his place as a developing talent in the league.