Saying he’s chasing a dream to win an NBA title, Zydrunas Ilgauskas is leaving the Cavaliers after 14 seasons to join LeBron Jamesand the Miami Heat.
The Cavs had a contract offer on the table and told Ilgauskas he was always welcome with the organization, but with the team in rebuilding mode, Ilgauskas chose to accept a two-year, $2.8 million offer in Miami. The second year will likely be a player option.
“It was a tough decision for me; very emotional,” Ilgauskas told The Plain Dealer. “I spent 14 years of my life here. I came in as a young boy and grew up to be a man. Cleveland had a lot to do with that.”
The Heat, who had no centers under contract, began recruiting Ilgauskas after James signed last week. James was part of the recruitment effort.
Cleveland.com
