The Journey to Division I

Four years of dominance at Balkan Botevgrad have led to a new frontier. Mikhail Gavazov, the Bulgarian wing who captured youth titles, the BBL Cup, and two NBL championships, is trading the familiar courts of Sofia for the high-stakes arena of American college basketball. After a standout season with the Blue Raiders, Gavazov has signed with Oral Roberts University, setting his sights on the NCAA Division I stage.

For Gavazov, basketball was never a hobby. It was destiny. "I always knew basketball wasn't just a pastime. It is life, and I always aimed to be the best version of myself," he told Sportal.bg. His first believer? His mother. "She was my first coach," he says, crediting her for the foundation of his career.

A Path Forged in Bulgarian Clubs

The road to the US was paved with grit and local experience. Gavazov cut his teeth at Levski Sofia, Slavia Sofia, Balkan, and Politehnika. "I took something from every team. Sport is my calling, and it made me who I am," he explains. The decision to cross the Atlantic was seamless. "Life throws difficulties. Knowing this is my calling, I didn't hesitate."

The transition to Oral Roberts wasn't without drama. After a failed Zoom meeting with another program, his agent pivoted. "Oral Roberts were incredible professionals. The head coach introduced the entire staff," Gavazov recalls. Now, he stands among six Bulgarian players in the US top flight. "It is an honor to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with boys I know. The feeling is amazing."

The Physicality of American Ball

Life in the US has sharpened his game. "The style is more physical, the pace is faster, and there is more isolation play. I learned how to focus on one-on-one play and, most importantly, how to adapt," Gavazov notes. He believes his presence helps inspire the next generation in Bulgaria. "When I visit home, young players see us in Division I and think, 'I can do that too.' It feels more accessible."

Yet, the glory hides the grind. "People don't see the work. No one knows I wake up early for extra training. They only see the success." Still, he watches the home league closely, a fan of the players he grew up with. And he admires Aleksandar Vezenov, whose EuroLeague triumph remains a special milestone for Bulgarian basketball.