I graded Goga Bitadze as one of the top international bigs in last year’s class. After decided to withdraw his name late, he is the best international center and a player whose pick-and-roll prowess is going to fit in nicely in an NBA system.
Position: C | From: Georgia | Class/YOB: 1999 |
Height: 6’11 | Weight: 250 | Wingspan: 7’2 |
Strengths:
- Mobility is good. Light on his feet. Goes from block to the perimeter quickly. Slimmed down this year
- Displays stretch five ability. Mid-range shot is reliable. Showing clear improvement in his range, shooting far more threes
- Help side defense is there. Always knows where the ball is and doesn’t hesitate to stop penetration.
- Plus shot-blocker. His timing is good.
- Acts as a good outlet in screen and rolls. Hits floaters, has nice touch around the rim, and can take defenders off the dribble after the catch.
Weaknesses:
- Still young in experience and physically. Has the potential to be a good center in the league but is at least two or three years away from contributing.
- Not the best post-up scorer. Likes to have space when he has the ball.
- Doesn’t take contact well due to lack of strength. As good as he is in P&Rs, he struggles to fight through hits near the rim.
- Gets in foul trouble far too much.
Stats:
PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | TPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
14.5 | 6.5 | 1.0 | 0.6 | 2.2 | 1.8 | 58.6% | 35.7% | 67.2% |