The Cleveland Cavaliers have announced that will retire Zydrunas Ilgauskas‘ #11 jersey this season. The jersey raising ceremony will occur on the March 8 game against the New York Knicks.

Ilguaskas, a 7-3 Lithuanian center, spent 12 seasons with the Cavs. “Big Z” garnered two all-star selections in 2003 and 2005. Ilgauskas would move on to the Miami Heat for the 2010-11 season and would retire after that season.

Known for his mid-range jumper, shaved head, and slow plodding up and down the court – he spent 13 years in the NBA despite chronic foot injuries early in his career.

For his career, Zydrunas Ilgauskas averaged 13 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game while shooting 47.8% from the field and 78% from the free throw line.

He wore #11 because Ilgauskas idolized fellow countryman and 7-3 center, Arvvdas Sabonis. Discuss Zydrunas having his jersey retired in our forum.