Introduction
Tiago Splitter is a name that bridges continents, basketball systems and storied moments. A Brazilian-born big man who made his mark in Europe and the NBA, Splitter’s career is defined not only by solid stats and a championship ring, but also by one moment that has lived on in highlight reels: the block by LeBron James. In this article we’ll explore Splitter’s journey — his height and age, his contract milestones, his stat lines, that unforgettable block, his personal life (including his wife), and the legacy he leaves behind.
Early Life & Background
Born on January 1, 1985 in Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brazil, Splitter grew up in a country better known for football than basketball. Standing at a towering 6 ft 11 (211 cm) and weighing around 245 lb (111 kg), he possessed the physical frame to compete at high levels.
Splitter’s early professional years were spent in Brazil and Spain, where he developed his game before making the leap to the NBA. His dual Brazilian/Spanish nationality helped his European career.
Height, Age & Physical Profile
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Height: 6′11″ (211 cm)
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Weight: Approximately 245 lb (about 111–113 kg)
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Date of Birth / Age: Born on January 1, 1985, making him 40 years old (as of 2025)
His size and mobility made him a valuable center/power-forward hybrid, able to defend, rebound and contribute offensively.
Career Path & Contract Highlights
Europe & Early Years
Splitter began his professional career in Brazil and moved to Spain’s Liga ACB where he played for teams like Saski Baskonia. He earned accolades in Europe (MVPs, All-EuroLeague Teams).
His performances made NBA teams take notice.
NBA Draft & Entry
In the 2007 NBA Draft, Splitter was selected in the first round, 28th overall, by the San Antonio Spurs. He stayed in Europe a bit longer before debuting in the NBA in the 2010-11 season.
Contract with San Antonio Spurs
When he signed with the Spurs in July 2010, the deal was believed to be worth about US$11 million over three years. His first years in the NBA saw steady growth in role and minutes.
Later Transitions
In July 2015 he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks and later had a stint with the Philadelphia 76ers via their G-League affiliate. Injuries (notably hip issues) curtailed his long-term impact, leading to his eventual retirement.
Coaching & Beyond
Post-playing career, Splitter moved into coaching and development roles, including with the Brooklyn Nets, Houston Rockets and as of 2025, he is interim head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.
This full-circle journey from player to coach adds to the breadth of his basketball resume.
The Iconic Moment: LeBron’s Block on Tiago Splitter
One of the most enduring images of Splitter’s career is linked to LeBron James’ block during the 2013 NBA Finals.
In Game 2 of the Finals between the Spurs and the Miami Heat, Splitter attempted a dunk and was emphatically swatted by LeBron. That play has since become a staple highlight clip.
Splitter himself responded years later, noting via social media:
“Are you guys posting this video every year!? dammm … it was great block tho.”
This moment encapsulates not only a single play but how high-stakes the competition was. It reinforced the narrative around elite athlete defining moments. As Time commented:
“It’s a good bet … that most sports fans have already seen LeBron James’ defiant block of the Spurs’ Tiago Splitter…”
However, it’s worth noting the broader career of Splitter, beyond that singular play.
Career Stats & Performance
Regular Season Averages
Across his NBA career (355 games):
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Points per game: 7.9
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Rebounds per game: 5.0
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Assists per game: 1.2
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Field goal percentage: ~55.5 %
Peak Seasons & European Career
His best season came 2012-13 with the Spurs, averaging about 10.3 points and 6.4 rebounds in 81 games.
In Europe, he compiled a strong resume: for example in Spain’s Liga ACB and EuroLeague he was recognized as MVP or part of All-EuroLeague teams.
Playoff Performance
Splitter also contributed in the postseason: Over 65 playoff games he averaged roughly 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds.
Interpretation of Stats
While not a superstar in terms of raw output, Splitter provided efficient minutes, solid shooting for a big man, and respectable rebounding. His size, skillset and basketball IQ allowed him to be a functional starting center for a championship-level team. His numbers reflect a role player who delivered when called upon.
Wife & Personal Life
Splitter’s personal life is relatively private but there are known details:
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He is married to Fernanda Splitter (since 2017) after a previous marriage to Amaia Amescua.
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Fernanda is not just a “coach’s wife” but an entrepreneurial individual: she’s involved in interior design and real estate initiatives, and she emphasises fitness and self-development.
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Together the couple have children and maintain a family life that supports Splitter’s post-playing career into coaching.
This dimension adds a human face to the athlete-turned-coach narrative: showing how life beyond the court and family support matter in career transitions.
Legacy & Impact
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First Brazilian NBA Champion: By winning the 2014 NBA title with the Spurs, Splitter became the first Brazilian-born player to win an NBA championship.
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International Bridge: His career highlights the pathway from Brazil → Europe → NBA → coaching ranks. That arc underscores the globalization of basketball talent.
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Role Model for Big Men: In an era where big men were increasingly expected to stretch, switch and defend, Splitter’s mobility, shooting touch and defense made him a template of the modern big.
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Resilience & Reinvention: Injuries shortened his peak NBA years, but he re-invented himself as a coach and mentor. That adaptation reflects longevity beyond playing years.
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Signature Moment Awareness: The “LeBron block” moment may overshadow his other contributions in public memory, but Splitter’s own acknowledgement of it (with humour) shows self-awareness and graciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How tall is Tiago Splitter?
A: He stands approximately 6 ft 11″ (211 cm).
Q: What was his best statistical NBA season?
A: The 2012-13 season with the Spurs, where he averaged 10.3 points and 6.4 rebounds over 81 games.
Q: Who is Tiago Splitter’s wife?
A: He is married to Fernanda Splitter since 2017. She is active in design and real-estate and supports his coaching career.
Q: What contract did he sign with the Spurs?
A: In 2010 he signed with the Spurs a deal reportedly worth around US$11 million over three years.
Q: What is the story of the LeBron block?
A: In Game 2 of the 2013 NBA Finals, Splitter went up for a dunk and LeBron James met him at the rim with a powerful block, which became an iconic highlight.
Conclusion
Tiago Splitter’s career may not have been studded with All-Star appearances or flashy individual stats, but the value he brought to teams, his international journey, and the way he transformed post-playing into coaching make him a fascinating subject. From his 6′11″ frame rising in Brazil, to Europe’s MVP honours, to an NBA championship, and finally to coaching in the NBA—Splitter’s path is rich. And yes, even one memorable play—a block by LeBron—has ensured his name lives on in basketball lore. As he continues his coaching career, the legacy he builds may be even more lasting than the one on the hardwood.
