In a closely contested game on December 23, 2024, between the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic, tensions flared late in the fourth quarter, leading to the ejection of Magic center Goga Bitadze. The incident began when Celtics forward Kristaps Porzingis engaged in a verbal exchange with Magic guard Jalen Suggs. As the two players confronted each other, Bitadze intervened, appearing to grab Porzingis by the throat. This action prompted officials to review the altercation, resulting in technical fouls for both Porzingis and Suggs, and an ejection for Bitadze.
Adding to the drama, Bitadze initially seemed to believe that Porzingis would be ejected. He was seen taunting Porzingis from the bench, only to display visible shock upon realizing that he himself was being expelled from the game.
After the game, Porzingis downplayed the incident, characterizing it as typical NBA competitiveness. He stated, “Nothing. Just competing. Started talking a little bit. We went face to face, and then we just kept on talking, and Bitadze came from the side and kind of shoved me, and of course I reacted to that. Just normal NBA action, a little bit. Nothing serious, just competing. It’s good that nobody got thrown out from our side and we just kept playing.”
Despite the altercation, the Magic secured a 108-104 victory over the Celtics. Bitadze contributed eight points, nine rebounds, and three assists before his ejection, while Porzingis added 17 points and four rebounds for Boston.
This incident highlights the intensity and physicality often present in NBA games, especially during closely contested matchups. Both teams demonstrated resilience, but the Magic’s ability to maintain composure after the ejection played a crucial role in their victory. As the season progresses, such experiences may serve as valuable lessons in managing emotions and maintaining focus under pressure.
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