The Cleveland Cavaliers have confirmed that they will be retiring Zydrunas Ilgauskas's jersey in March.

Ilgauskas spent 14 years in Ohio after moving to the NBA in 1996 and the two-time All-Star will be honoured in a ceremony later this season.

"Zydrunas is not only one of the best basketball players to ever wear a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform, he is also one of the finest human beings that has ever been associated with the franchise," Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert said in a statement.

"What is more impressive about this gentle giant is the authentic concern and interest he displayed for not only his teammates, but for everybody who worked at the Cavaliers and for the loyal fans who supported him throughout and after his playing days."

The number 11 jersey will be retired before the game against the New York Knicks on March 8.