Zaza Pachulia

Georgia’s Enforcer and Unsung Champion

Career Highlights:

• Played 16 NBA seasons (2003–2019) with the Magic, Bucks, Hawks, Mavericks, Warriors, and Pistons

• Won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors (2017, 2018)

• Career averages of 6.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG over 1,098 games

• First Georgian-born player to win an NBA title

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A Gritty Start in the Paint

Zaza Pachulia arrived in the NBA as a tough, physical center out of the Republic of Georgia. While never flashy, he made a mark with his rebounding, screens, and willingness to do the dirty work—especially during his years with the Hawks and Bucks. Opponents felt him every possession, and teammates appreciated his consistency and presence in the locker room.

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The Golden Fit

Pachulia’s greatest impact came later in his career with the Warriors. As Golden State evolved into a dynasty, Zaza brought balance—a physical edge on a finesse-heavy team. His screens opened up space for shooters like Steph and Klay, and his presence allowed Draymond Green to roam more freely on defense. Though not a scorer, his on-court IQ and toughness made him the perfect complementary piece.

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Legacy Beyond the Box Score

Zaza became a fan favorite—sometimes a meme, sometimes a menace. His "almost All-Star" voting surge in 2016 became internet lore, but behind the humor was respect: a hardworking player from a non-traditional basketball country who carved out a long, meaningful NBA career. Today, he serves as an executive with the Warriors, shaping the game for the next generation.

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What do you remember most—his screens, his scowl, or his sneakers on Steph’s postgame interviews?

Tell us your favorite Zaza moment below.

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