Goga Bitadze, the talented Georgian basketball player, is a pivotal part of the NBA’s Indiana Pacers. His prowess on the court is undeniable, but his life beyond the three-point line is equally intriguing. Join us in exploring the fascinating world of Goga Bitadze.
A Rising Star Goga Bitadze, hailing from Sagarejo, Georgia, made his mark when the Indiana Pacers drafted him as the 18th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. However, his basketball journey had humble beginnings, starting with VITA Tbilisi in the VTB United League.
Mega Basket and Serbian Sojourn In 2015, Bitadze embarked on an international adventure, joining the Serbian club Mega Basket. His dedication and prowess on the court couldn’t go unnoticed. In 2017–18, he returned to Mega Basket, and that season, he was named the Junior ABA League’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). Bitadze rapidly transitioned into an indispensable player for the senior squad.
EuroLeague Rising Star Goga Bitadze’s talent shone brightly during his loan period with Budunost in Montenegro in 2018. His remarkable performance earned him the prestigious title of EuroLeague Rising Star, foretelling a promising future in the league.
National Pride Bitadze’s contributions to the sport extend to representing his homeland. He plays for the Georgian national team and made his international debut during the 2017 FIBA World Cup qualifiers. His selection for the EuroBasket team solidified his role as a key figure in Georgia’s basketball journey. Even during his junior years, Bitadze proudly competed for Georgia in various FIBA competitions.
Beyond the Paint While Goga Bitadze commands attention on the court, his personal life remains largely under wraps. As of now, there is no news of his involvement in a romantic relationship. He remains committed to his first love, basketball, and dedicates his time and energy to the sport.
Family Bonds and Support Born on July 20, 1999, in Sagarejo, Georgia, Goga Bitadze’s family has played an integral role in his life. His father, James Kramer Short, a former professional basketball player, understood the game’s nuances until a career-ending injury altered his path. Bitadze’s mother, Kimberly Kennan Hankins Short, has been a steadfast pillar of support. His parents share in his passion for the sport and are often seen cheering him on from the stands. While the names of his parents are known, Goga maintains privacy regarding other family members and siblings.
Salary and Net Worth Goga Bitadze’s talent reflects in his contract with the Pacers, earning him $4,765,339 for the 2022-23 season, with a substantial increase to $6,762,016 for the next season. His net worth is estimated to be between $1 million to $5 million, a testament to his rapidly rising career.
A Unique Legacy Goga Bitadze currently holds the pivotal role of a center with the Pacers, proudly wearing jersey number 88. He is the first player to bear this number since 2019, etching his unique legacy in Pacers’ history.
Goga Bitadze’s journey from a Georgian hometown to the NBA exemplifies the relentless pursuit of a dream. While he conquers the court, his life beyond the buzzer is a testament to family support, dedication, and uncharted potential. In the world of basketball, Goga Bitadze’s story continues to unfold, promising more remarkable moments on and off the hardwood.