"Goga really better than Zion" - Fans erupt after Goga Bitadze dunks all over Giannis Antetokounmpo

Fans erupt after Goga Bitadze dunks all over Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image Credit: Imagn)
Fans erupt after Goga Bitadze dunks all over Giannis Antetokounmpo (Image Credit: Imagn)

Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze posterized Milwaukee Bucks superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo during Tuesday's NBA Cup quarterfinal showdown. The unexpected highlight play left NBA fans raving about the big man's recent output and rapid ascension after being overlooked early in his career.

Bitadze has taken on an increased role for the depleted Magic this season and has delivered career-best production. Through 19 starts, the sixth-year center is averaging 10.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.7 blocks per game, shooting 64.0%.

The 2019 No. 18 draft pick came up big again on Tuesday, tallying 12 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and two stocks, shooting 46.2%. He also bested Antetokounmpo late in the first half. After running a pick-and-roll with teammate Jalen Suggs, Bitadze threw down a right-handed hammer over the two-time MVP.

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Fans on X/Twitter were hyped by the play, with some remarking about Bitadze's substantial improvement.

"The Georgia Beast," @PredatorPaolo said.
"Wasn't expecting to see a Goga poster tonight, not gonna lie," @PrizePicks wrote.
"(He's) been hooping by the way," @mikeythrows said.
"Cooked my GOAT," @WannaBeReece wrote.

Meanwhile, others recounted reporters ignoring Bitadze in favor of then-presumptive No. 1 pick Zion Williamson during a 2019 pre-draft media availability session.

Since being selected No. 1 by the New Orleans Pelicans, Williamson's career has been plagued by injuries. The two-time All-Star has been limited to six games this season due to a left hamstring strain.

"Goga (is) really better than Zion. Oh, how the turn tables," @mansleyidk said.
"Better than Zion. I don't give a f**k," @THEKAIFAN_11," wrote.

Giannis Antetokounmpo gets revenge on Goga Bitadze following poster dunk

Later in Tuesday's contest, Giannis Antetokounmpo returned the favor against Goga Bitadze. Midway through the third quarter, Antetokounmpo secured a rebound, pushed the ball up the court, and slammed over Bitadze with his left hand.

The basket marked two of Antetokounmpo's game-high 37 points on 62.5% shooting. He also got the last laugh, as Milwaukee (13-11) secured a 114-109 home victory to advance to the in-season tournament's semifinals.


Also Read: Drawing comparisons to LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo's relentless work ethic broken down by his brother

Pelicans Fan? Check out the latest New Orlean Pelicans depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Tristan Rawcliffe
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