Talkin' with Trav: Kirilenko discusses the NBA, Jimmer, Mormons and adoption

By Travis Hansen

For the Deseret News

Published: Thursday, Dec. 1 2011 11:03 a.m. MST

Photo

View 1 photo »

Summary

Andrei Kirilenko and I met while we were in Italy training for the Russian National Team four years ago. Since then we have kept in touch and it has been fun to follow his success as he plays for one of the best teams in Europe, CSKA. We talked Wednesday morning, while my former Russian teammate Vitaly Fridzon was at Kirilenko's house in Moscow. He talked about his recent broken nose, Jimmer, NBA, Mormons and adoption, among other things. Here is part of our conversation:

Kirilenko: Before Dec. 9th I will listen to offers from the NBA. I am happy in CSKA and it will be a tough decision. Utah Jazz is in my heart and is on the priority list. I will look at everything on the table. You know here in Russia my kids are in school, the team is great and I have been playing really well. It will be a difficult decision.

Hansen: Did you follow Jimmer?

Kirilenko: Yes, I followed a little and I think he can play. You know there was all that Jimmermania going on in Utah and we all wanted him to come play for the Jazz but unfortunately he got drafted and signed for the Sacramento Kings. I wish him good luck.

Hansen: How many more years do you want to play?

Kirilenko: I would like to play three or four more years. I feel have enough juice left for that many more years at a high level. After three to four years I don't know if I will be able to play at my highest level.

«Prev
Page:
1
2

Featured Comments

See all 13 comments »

Gordon over Jimmer

CORONA, CA

Someone should send the missionaries to Ak's house...

1:21 p.m. Dec. 1, 2011
Top comment

Motappin

Sandy, UT

He's been overpaid and he's been fragile, but AK is a good guy. If he doesn't come back it'll be weird seeing a Jazz team without him. Either bring him back for WAY less money or let him go.

2:06 p.m. Dec. 1, 2011
Top comment

Pipes

Salt Lake City, UT

Will always like AK. He had his ups and downs but when he was on, he was sure fun to watch!

2:16 p.m. Dec. 1, 2011
Top comment

Comments