By: Keyona Balfour Intern
Zydrunas “Z” Ilgauskas, former Cleveland Cavalier center, #11 jersey is expected to hang in the raptures of the Q arena forever. The Cleveland Cavaliers will honor “Z” on March 8, 2014 when the Cavs play the New York Knicks. The Cavaliers chose Zydrunas with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the 1996 NBA draft. Zydrunas spent 13 years with the Cleveland Cavaliers, became to 2-time All-Star and he is still the franchise’s all time leader in rebounds, blocked shots and games played. He is second all time in points.
“Zydrunas Ilgauskas is not only one of the best basketball players to ever wear a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform, he is also one of the finest human beings that has ever been associated with the franchise,” stated owner Dan Gilbert in a team release. “I am proud that the big fella’s jersey is being retired and will hang forever in the rafters of The Q,” he added.
“I am happy and humbled by this great honor. Cleveland and the Cavaliers have been such a huge part of my life and it will be a very special and proud day for me and my family,” said Ilgauskas. “I want to thank the Cavaliers and fans alike because I have been very fortunate to play here, work here and call Cleveland home.”