Zydrunas Ilgauskas is one of the last of a breed. The 7-3 Lithuanian center for the Cavaliers is a true back-to-the-basket center. This weekend in Denver, Ilgauskas will be making his second All-Star appearance. Ilgauskas is a presence on both ends of the floor as he averages 17.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.92 blocks per game for the Cavaliers, who are in a solid position for the postseason spot in the Eastern Conference.

Ilgauskas took time out during NBA All-Star 2005 to answer your e-mail questions.

The Big Z, how do you feel to have a title such as an NBA All-Star in your resume?
-- John from Mississauga, Ontario

Ilgauskas poses for a portrait during NBA All-Star 2005.
Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE/Getty Images
Ilgauskas: it feels great. It’s a big honor and you don’t get to go to many All-Star Games – in my career especially with all the injuries I’ve had. So, it feels really good to know that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off.

What is it like playing with LeBron James?
-- Aaron from Rocky Mount, Missouri

Ilgauskas: It’s been great. It’s been a blessing in disguise since we got him. This team has been in a down-spiral for a while and it seemed like there was no light at the end of the tunnel. When he came in, everything switched.

Is there a different atmosphere with the Cavs this year? What do you think your chances are of making the playoffs?
-- Shari from Dayton, Ohio

Ilgauskas: We’re trying to get home-court advantage in the first round in the playoffs. Hopefully we can do that. It’s still a long ways to go but we’re definitely playing a lot better.

What are you looking forward to most about this All-Star weekend in Denver?
-- S.T. from New York, N.Y.

Ilgauskas: Hopefully I’ll get some rest in. (Laughing) Other than that, just going to try to enjoy it. You never know when is your last All-Star Game. This might be it, so if it’s it I’m going to enjoy it the best I can.