Onuralp Bitim (born March 31, 1999) is a Turkish professional basketball player, known for his versatile playing style as a small forward. Standing 6’6″ (1.98m) and weighing 215 pounds (98 kg), Bitim began his career in Turkey, quickly rising through the ranks to become a key player in the Turkish Basketball Super League (BSL) with Bursaspor. His breakout season in 2022/23, where he starred in the EuroCup and Turkish league, earned him significant recognition, eventually leading to his dream move to the NBA.
In 2023, Bitim joined the Chicago Bulls, fulfilling his childhood aspiration of playing in the NBA. Though he went undrafted, his exceptional skills, including scoring, athleticism, and defense, have made him a promising talent on the Bulls’ roster.
Early Life and Background
Onuralp Bitim was born on March 31, 1999, in Turkey, a country with a deep passion for basketball and a growing reputation for producing talented players. Raised in Istanbul, a city known for its vibrant basketball culture, Bitim was immersed in the sport from an early age. His athletic ability and passion for basketball were evident as a young boy, and he quickly became one of the most promising young players in Turkey.
Growing up, Bitim idolized NBA players like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, drawing inspiration from their work ethic and dedication to the game. He honed his skills on local courts and participated in various youth leagues, where he consistently outperformed his peers. His talent was soon recognized by scouts and coaches across the country.
Bitim’s early years were marked by his relentless determination to improve his game. He would often spend hours practicing his shooting, ball handling, and defensive skills, dreaming of one day making it to the NBA. His parents, supportive of his ambitions, ensured he had every opportunity to pursue his passion. Despite his natural ability, Bitim knew that hard work was the key to success, and he committed himself to becoming the best player he could be.
Youth Career and Development
Bitim’s rise through the ranks of Turkish basketball was meteoric. He joined the Anadolu Efes youth academy, one of the premier basketball institutions in Turkey, where he developed under the guidance of some of the country’s best coaches. The Anadolu Efes system has produced numerous top-level players, and Bitim quickly stood out as a prodigy.
During his time in the youth academy, Bitim was known for his versatility. Standing at 6’6″, he had the size and athleticism to play multiple positions, excelling both as a shooting guard and a small forward. His ability to score from the perimeter, combined with his explosive athleticism, made him a difficult matchup for opposing teams. Additionally, Bitim showed an early understanding of the game, with a high basketball IQ that allowed him to make smart decisions on the court.
As a teenager, Bitim began representing Turkey in international competitions. His performances at the youth level drew attention from scouts not only in Turkey but across Europe and the United States. Playing for Turkey’s under-16 and under-18 teams, he consistently impressed, helping his teams to strong finishes in European competitions. These experiences not only improved his skills but also prepared him for the challenges of professional basketball.
Professional Career in Turkey
Bitim’s professional career began in earnest when he made his debut for Anadolu Efes in the Turkish Basketball Super League (BSL). At just 17 years old, he was thrust into a league filled with seasoned veterans, but he did not shy away from the challenge. Though he was primarily used in a reserve role in his early years, Bitim’s talent was undeniable.
His time at Anadolu Efes was crucial for his development. Under the guidance of experienced coaches and surrounded by top-tier talent, Bitim grew as a player. His work ethic was lauded by his teammates and coaches alike, and he spent countless hours in the gym, fine-tuning his jump shot and improving his defense. Despite limited playing time in his early seasons, Bitim showed flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential.
In 2020, seeking more playing time and an expanded role, Bitim made the decision to leave Anadolu Efes and join Bursaspor, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career. At Bursaspor, Bitim blossomed into one of the top players in the league. Given more freedom to showcase his abilities, he quickly became the team’s go-to scorer. His ability to score in a variety of ways, whether it was slashing to the basket, pulling up from mid-range, or hitting from beyond the arc, made him a nightmare for defenders.
Bitim’s breakout season came in 2022-2023, when he led Bursaspor to a strong showing in both the Turkish Basketball Super League and the EuroCup. Averaging impressive numbers across the board, he caught the attention of basketball fans and analysts across Europe. His performances in the EuroCup, in particular, were eye-catching, as he regularly put up big scoring numbers against some of the best teams in Europe.
International Recognition and NBA Dreams
Bitim’s success in Turkey and Europe did not go unnoticed. He became one of the most talked-about players in Turkish basketball, with many speculating that he would soon make the jump to the NBA. Bitim himself had never been shy about his ambition to play in the NBA. In interviews, he frequently spoke about his dream of competing at the highest level of basketball and testing himself against the best players in the world.
In 2023, Bitim had the opportunity to fulfill that dream. Despite receiving lucrative offers from top European clubs, including an offer from Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos, Bitim made the bold decision to pursue a career in the NBA. He was offered a contract by the Chicago Bulls, a historic franchise that had been rebuilding and looking for young talent to help them return to contention.
Joining the Chicago Bulls was a dream come true for Bitim, who had grown up watching NBA games and idolizing the stars of the league. However, he knew that making the transition from European basketball to the NBA would be challenging. The pace of the game, the level of athleticism, and the physicality of the NBA were all steps up from what he had experienced in Europe.
Chicago Bulls and NBA Debut
Onuralp Bitim officially signed with the Chicago Bulls ahead of the 2023-2024 NBA season, marking the beginning of his journey in the world’s premier basketball league. He made his debut for the Bulls early in the season, and while his playing time was initially limited, Bitim made the most of his opportunities. Known for his work ethic, Bitim quickly earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, who appreciated his willingness to learn and his commitment to improving every aspect of his game.
In his rookie season, Bitim showed flashes of his potential. While adjusting to the speed and intensity of the NBA took time, his ability to score and defend at a high level was evident. Bitim’s versatility was one of his greatest strengths, as he was able to contribute in multiple ways on the court. Whether it was hitting a crucial three-pointer, making a defensive stop, or facilitating the offense, Bitim found ways to impact games.
While he was not a regular starter in his first season, Bitim’s performances off the bench were promising. He provided a spark for the Bulls with his energy and intensity, and as the season progressed, he saw his minutes increase. His best games came towards the end of the season, where he showed that he could compete with some of the best players in the league.
Playing Style and Strengths
Onuralp Bitim’s playing style is a blend of European finesse and NBA-level athleticism. Standing at 6’6″ with a strong frame, Bitim has the physical tools to excel as a wing player in the NBA. His scoring ability is perhaps his most defining trait. Bitim can score in a variety of ways, whether it’s driving to the basket, pulling up from mid-range, or hitting three-pointers with consistency.
Bitim’s athleticism allows him to finish at the rim with authority, often rising above defenders for powerful dunks. He’s also an excellent shooter, capable of hitting shots from beyond the arc with range and accuracy. His versatility as a scorer makes him a valuable asset, as he can create his own shot or play off the ball.
Defensively, Bitim is no slouch either. His size and athleticism make him a capable defender on the perimeter, where he can guard multiple positions. His high basketball IQ allows him to read plays and make smart decisions on both ends of the court.
One of Bitim’s most underrated skills is his passing ability. While he is primarily known as a scorer, he has shown that he can facilitate the offense when needed. His vision and decision-making allow him to find open teammates, making him a well-rounded player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.