Zydrunas Ilgauskas is Lithuanian basketball player born on June 5 in Kaunas (Lithuania). He is a 7'2'' center who most recently played at Miami Heat in the NBA. Ilgauskas was drafted by .
ydrnas Ilgauskas
Key Career Moment of ydrnas Ilgauskas
ydrnas Ilgauskas had a defining moment in the 2007 NBA Playoffs when he helped lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance. Standing at 7'3, Ilgauskas was a dominant force in the paint, averaging 12.6 points and 9.7 rebounds per game during that postseason run.
His veteran presence and defensive prowess were crucial alongside LeBron James, as the Cavaliers overcame the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Big Z was the anchor of our defense-his leadership was invaluable, said former teammate Daniel Gibson.This deep playoff run cemented Ilgauskas as one of the most respected big men in Cavaliers history.
Unique Skill of ydrnas Ilgauskas
ydrnas Ilgauskas possessed a rare combination of size and finesse for a center.
Unlike many traditional big men, he had a reliable mid-range jumper and excellent footwork in the post. His signature move-a sweeping hook shot-was nearly unblockable due to his height and soft touch.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas is a Lithuanian-born American former professional basketball player who played the center position.
Additionally, his ability to stretch defenses with his shooting made him a versatile offensive threat in the NBA.
ydrnas Ilgauskas's Stats
- 13-year NBA career, all but one season with the Cavaliers
- 10,976 career points and 6,191 rebounds
- Two-time NBA All-Star (2003, 2005)
ydrnas Ilgauskas's Legacy in the NBA
ydrnas Ilgauskas left an enduring mark as one of the greatest international players in Cavaliers history.
Overcoming early career foot injuries, he became a franchise icon and the team's all-time leader in rebounds and blocks before being surpassed by LeBron James. A unique fact: Ilgauskas was the first Lithuanian-born player to be named an NBA All-Star.
After retiring, his No. 11 jersey was retired by the Cavaliers, solidifying his place as a basketball legend in Cleveland and a trailblazer for European big men in the NBA.