Andrei Kirilenko, former NBA player and current president of the Russian Basketball Federation, shared his perspective on the differences between the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the NBA. Kirilenko, who played 13 seasons in the NBA and had a successful career in Europe, expressed his preference for the EuroLeague, emphasizing it as the home of proper basketball.
EuroLeague: A Showcase of Great Basketball
In an interview with Russian outlet Okko Sport, Andrei Kirilenko encouraged basketball enthusiasts to watch the EuroLeague, describing it as a showcase of great basketball. He highlighted the EuroLeague’s emphasis on traditional team plays, tactics, and players’ comprehensive understanding of on-court situations.
NBA: Individual-Centric Approach
Contrasting the EuroLeague, Kirilenko suggested that the NBA’s style of basketball is still “wrong” in his opinion, emphasizing a more individual-centric approach. According to him, the NBA tends to focus on individual skills rather than prioritizing team plays and tactics.
Learning from EuroLeague Games
Kirilenko went on to recommend following the EuroLeague, especially for those who love basketball, and singled out players like Milos Teodosic as exemplary. He expressed the belief that one can even learn basketball by watching EuroLeague games due to the emphasis on team plays and strategic elements.
Kirilenko’s Basketball Journey
Having played 13 seasons in the NBA, including stints with the Utah Jazz, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Brooklyn Nets, Kirilenko accumulated a wealth of experience. His transition to European basketball included successful spells with CSKA Moscow, where he was named the EuroLeague MVP in 2012 and won two VTB United League championships.
#Euroleague, before the game ANDREI KIRILENKO and NENAD KRSTIĆ were awarded as Euroleague MVP for October and November. pic.twitter.com/7pbBrGNZ
— InvictusSportsGroup (@InvictusSports) December 7, 2011
International Success and Leadership Role
Kirilenko’s contributions extended to the international stage, representing Russia. He achieved notable success, winning gold in the 2007 EuroBasket and securing a bronze medal in the 2012 Olympic Games. Since retiring from playing, Kirilenko has taken on a leadership role as the president of the Russian Basketball Federation.
In summary, Kirilenko’s perspective sheds light on the contrasting styles of basketball in the EuroLeague and NBA, with a preference for the EuroLeague’s team-oriented and strategic approach.
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