NBA champion Zaza Pachulia receives Georgia’s Order of Honour

Georgia's first National Basketball Association (NBA) champion Zaza Pachulia has been awarded the Order of Honour, one of the major state prizes of the country, for his achievements in developing the sport in Georgia and representing the country abroad.

Earlier today, Pachulia, who celebrated his NBA title with Golden State Warriors in June, was bestowed the award by President of Georgia Giorgi Margvelashvili.

The awards ceremony was hosted at the Presidential Palace in Tbilisi, with players and coaches of the Georgian national team and representatives from Pachulia's NBA team in attendance.

Pachulia spoke at the occasion of the "special day" of being recognised with the award. Photo: President of Georgia press office.

Success is important, however it is also important when one returns a share of their success to their public. Zaza Pachulia does not forget about his homeland and his society. 

 He stood side-by-side with us when Tbilisi needed help following the [June 13, 2015] flood. I would like to thank him for his patriotism", said Margvelashvili while addressing the public at the occasion.

In his acceptance address the 33-year old athlete said the "special day" of the award meant his life and career efforts were "recognised" and he would "wear the Order of Honour with honour".

The news on Pachulia's selection for the order was announced last month, with head of Margvelashvili's administration informing the athlete on the decision.

Georgia's basketball team, family members and Pachulia's NBA team representatives were in attendance at the Presidential Palace. Photo: President of Georgia press office.

Pachulia made history for Georgian basketball when his team Golden State Warriors defeated Cleveland Cavaliers in the finals of the famed tournament.

The Georgian also became the first player from his country to appear in the decisive match of the series, held in Oakland, California.

The Order of Honour is awarded to Georgian citizens for "outstanding personal contribution to the building of independent Georgian State", including in the field of sporting achievements.

Recipients of the prize in the field of sport include Georgia's first medal-winner in junior figure skating Elene Gedevanishvili and the country's medallists of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games.