Anderson França Varejão is a Brazilian former professional basketball player who is currently a Player Development Consultant and Global Ambassador for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he spent 13 of his 14 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Anderson Varejo
Key Career Moment of Anderson Varejo
Anderson Varejo had a defining NBA moment during the 2015 NBA Finals with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite battling injuries, his relentless energy and defensive presence helped the Cavaliers push the Golden State Warriors to six games. His performance in Game 3, where he grabbed 13 rebounds and disrupted the Warriors' offense, showcased his impact as a key role player.
He's the heart of our defense, LeBron James said after the game.Though Cleveland ultimately fell short, Varejo's toughness became legendary.
Unique Skill of Anderson Varejo
Anderson Varejo's signature skill was his elite offensive rebounding and ability to draw charges.
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Nicknamed Wild Thing for his scrappy play, he had an uncanny sense for positioning, often tipping loose balls to teammates or sacrificing his body to stop fast breaks. His high motor and relentless hustle made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opponents.
Anderson Varejo's Stats
- 13 NBA seasons (2004-2017), mostly with Cleveland
- Career averages: 7.3 points, 7.2 rebounds per game
- Led the NBA in charges drawn multiple seasons
Anderson Varejo's Legacy in the NBA
Anderson Varejo's basketball career left a lasting mark as one of the NBA's ultimate glue guys.
Though never a star, his work ethic and defensive intensity made him invaluable to winning teams. A unique fact: He was part of two historic Cavaliers trades-first arriving in 2004 in a deal for Carlos Boozer, then later being traded in 2016 to help clear cap space for Cleveland's championship run.
After retiring, Varejo remained connected to the game, mentoring young big men in Brazil and Europe.