# Žydrūnas Ilgauskas

> Lithuanian basketball player

**Wikidata**: [Q72353](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q72353)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zydrunas_Ilgauskas)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/zydrunas-ilgauskas

## Summary
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas is a Lithuanian basketball player known for his professional career, primarily with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA. Born on June 5, 1975, he is recognized for his contributions to basketball, particularly his role as a center and his resilience through injury challenges.

## Biography
- **Born**: June 5, 1975
- **Nationality**: Lithuania
- **Known for**: Professional basketball career as a center, notably with the Cleveland Cavaliers
- **Employer(s)**: Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA), Washington Wizards, Miami Heat
- **Field(s)**: Professional basketball

## Contributions
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas played in the NBA from 1996 to 2011, primarily for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he became a key player and fan favorite. He contributed to the team's success during his tenure, including playoff appearances. Ilgauskas also represented Lithuania in international competitions, helping to elevate the country's basketball profile globally.

## FAQs
**What teams did Žydrūnas Ilgauskas play for in the NBA?**  
Ilgauskas played for the Cleveland Cavaliers (1996–2010), Washington Wizards (2010–2011), and Miami Heat (2011).

**What position did Žydrūnas Ilgauskas play?**  
He played as a center, known for his defensive skills and shot-blocking ability.

**Did Žydrūnas Ilgauskas play internationally?**  
Yes, he represented Lithuania in international basketball tournaments, contributing to the national team's efforts.

## Why They Matter
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas is significant for his enduring NBA career, particularly his long tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he became a cornerstone player. His resilience in overcoming multiple injuries, including a stress fracture in his foot, inspired teammates and fans. Ilgauskas also played a role in popularizing Lithuanian basketball globally, showcasing the country's talent in the NBA and international competitions.

## Notable For
- **Long NBA Career**: Played 15 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
- **Cleveland Cavaliers Legacy**: A fan favorite and key contributor during his time with the team.
- **International Representation**: Helped elevate Lithuania's basketball profile through international play.
- **Resilience**: Overcame significant injuries to maintain a successful career.

## Body
### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Žydrūnas Ilgauskas was born on June 5, 1975, in Kaunas, Lithuania. He began his basketball career in his home country before transitioning to the NBA.

### Professional Career
- **Cleveland Cavaliers (1996–2010)**: Drafted by the Cavaliers in 1996, Ilgauskas spent 14 seasons with the team, becoming a central figure and fan favorite. He was known for his defensive prowess and shot-blocking.
- **Later NBA Career (2010–2011)**: Ilgauskas played briefly for the Washington Wizards and Miami Heat before retiring in 2011.

### International Play
Ilgauskas represented Lithuania in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success and helping to promote Lithuanian basketball worldwide.

### Legacy
Ilgauskas's NBA career, marked by longevity and resilience, left a lasting impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers and the broader basketball community. His ability to adapt and overcome injuries served as an inspiration, while his international play highlighted Lithuania's basketball talent.

## References

1. FIBA database
2. RealGM
3. National Basketball Association
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013