Ilgauskas follows LeBron to Miami

Associated Press

MIAMI

Zydrunas Ilgauskas has dealt Cleveland another blow by planning to follow LeBron James to the Miami Heat.

The veteran center, who started playing for Cleveland in 1997 and has never suited up for another NBA team, expects to sign a two-year contract with the Heat later this week, agent Herb Rudoy said Tuesday. The two-year deal would come with a player option for the second season, Rudoy said.

“We’ve agreed to agree,” Rudoy said.

Ilgauskas’ decision became known less than a week after James — who played a role in recruiting the 7-foot-3 Lithuanian to South Florida — sparked outrage and outcry in Cleveland by going on a made-for-television special and saying he was joining the Heat.

This departure won’t generate the same reaction from Clevelanders, but it’ll hurt nonetheless.

Ilgauskas was a fan favorite for more than a decade, and when he returned to the Cavs after getting traded to the Washington Wizards this past season, a sellout crowd welcomed him with huge signs bearing the letter “Z” — his moniker. Ilgauskas never played for the Wizards, quickly getting bought out and then returning to Cleveland after a 30-day waiting period.

Playing with James again was a major factor in Ilgauskas’ decision.

“LeBron was very encouraging and explained the whole situation,” Ilgauskas told the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. “And, obviously, he’s my friend, and him being there made it a lot easier to choose.”

On his Twitter feed, James quickly welcomed Ilgauskas to Miami.

“Glad u are joining me in South Beach my friend. Also thanks for the encouraging words big fella,” James wrote.