Luka Doncic, Slovenia vs. Magic's Goga Bitadze, Georgia: FIBA World Cup Preview

Luka Doncic leads Slovenia against Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze and Georgia.

Author:
Grant Afseth
Publish date:
Aug 28, 2023 1:45 AM EDT

In this story:

Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze leads Georgia into a tough contest against Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic and the Slovenia.

Georgia is coming off an 85-60 win over Cape Verde.

Bitadze finished with 15 points on 3 of 4 shooting, 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals in 19 minutes off of the bench. The 6-11, 230-pound big man was often fouled in the paint, as he converted 10 of 11 free throws. Bitadze's impact on the court was very apparent as he finished second on the team in plus-minus with +21.

The opposition is well aware of how potent of a threat any team is that has a talent of Doncic's caliber, but especially with the shooting capabilities around him to space the floor.

Doncic shares plenty of mutual respect with Georgia as an opponent, highlighting they size the team boasts in the frontcourt, along with the physicality of its personnel. Both sides have been eager to prepare for the challenge that lies ahead.

"Very tall team, very talented," Doncic said of Georgia. "They have so many weapons, and we'll watch the video, but it's going to be really tough. Tough game. We're looking forward to the game."

Slovenia vs. Georgia tips off at 7:30 a.m. ET on ESPN+.

Grant Afseth is an NBA reporter primarily covering the Dallas Mavericks, but also the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, and Orlando Magic for FanNation, as well as the league at larger for NBA Analysis Network. He previously covered the Indiana Pacers and NBA for CNHI's Kokomo Tribune and various NBA teams for USA TODAY Sports Media Group.