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Darius SongailaLithuanian professional basketball player
Date of Birth: 14.02.1978
Country:  Lithuania |
Content:
- Darius Songaila - Lithuanian Professional Basketball Player
- Early Life and College Career
- NBA Career
- International Career
- Recent Years and Injuries
- Washington Wizards
Darius Songaila - Lithuanian Professional Basketball Player
Darius Songaila (born February 14, 1978) is a Lithuanian professional basketball player, currently playing for the Washington Wizards of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He plays as a power forward and has had a successful career both internationally and in the NBA.
Early Life and College Career
Darius Songaila was born on February 14, 1978 in Kapsukas (now Marijampole), Lithuanian SSR, USSR. He moved to the United States to attend college and played for four years at Wake Forest University.
NBA Career
In the 2002 NBA draft, Songaila was selected in the second round as the 50th overall pick by the Boston Celtics. However, he did not play a single game for the Celtics as he was sent to Europe in his rookie season to play for CSKA Moscow. After returning to America a year later, Songaila was traded to the Sacramento Kings. He played for the Kings from 2003 to 2005, and then signed with the Chicago Bulls as a free agent. Throughout his career, Songaila primarily played a defensive role, averaging six points and four rebounds per game.
International Career
Darius Songaila has been a key player for the Lithuanian national team. He helped the team win the European Championship in 2003 and earn bronze medals at the Olympics in Athens.
Recent Years and Injuries
During the 2005/2006 season with the Chicago Bulls, Songaila played an important role both offensively and defensively. However, he suffered a serious ankle injury towards the end of the season, requiring surgery and causing him to miss the remaining games of the regular season and playoffs.
Washington Wizards
On July 17, 2006, Songaila signed a five-year, $23 million contract with the Washington Wizards. However, he has not yet played a game for the Wizards due to a herniated disc, which required surgery on November 2. His debut with the Wizards is expected to take place after the NBA All-Star Game.
