<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">CLEVELAND - Zydrunas Ilgauskas had his suspicions for several years, but the truth came this week. It was sometime in between him openly complaining about rule differences and taking a certain pride in smashing Maccabi Tel Aviv on Tuesday night. It marked the first time Ilgauskas had played against a true European team in 10 years, a reminder that he's now spent a decade calling Cleveland home. It led to somewhat of an epiphany. ``I know now I'm an American player,'' the native Lithuanian said. ``Ten years in the NBA has made me one.'' Technically, once Ilgauskas married his wife last year he became an American. He's certainly paid enough taxes to Uncle Sam to make him welcome for the rest of his life as well. Still, it is with a certain nostalgia that Ilgauskas admits his life changes that have played out in front of Cavaliers fans for a decade. When he showed up as a part of the heralded 1996 draft class he spoke little English, had lots of hair, a raw game and a pair of brittle feet. Now his feet have been surgically corrected, he's developed into one of the league's most talented and steadiest centers with two All-Star appearances. His command of the language has enabled him to become famous around the team for his quick yet dry wit, which is why he also points out his hairline has given up significant ground over the years. At 31, Ilgauskas is looking forward to this season with more vigor than any during his career. Last year marked the first time since his rookie season that Ilgauskas got to experience the playoffs. Like the other experiences in his past, he's trying to learn from it. In each of the last two seasons, Ilgauskas has seemed to wear down at the end of the season. Now on the backside of his career, he's attempting to make changes to plan for the end of the season. Cavs coach Mike Brown has promised to keep a tight hold on Ilgauskas minutes to help out. ``You've got to take care your body better. The things you got away with at the beginning of my career I can't do any more,'' Ilgauskas said. ``I've got to go to bed at a reasonable time, watch what I eat before a game. The older you get, the first thing you realize is your recovery time takes longer.''</div> Source
