Andrey Kirilenko stays in CSKA

Forward Andrey Kirilenko decided not to use his contract option which allowed him to sign with NBA club after the lockout finished. One of the best European forwards, Euroleague ranking leader stays with our team. Kirilenko will join the team on January, 3.

Let us remind that Kirilenko signed 3-year contract before the start of 2011-12 season with opt-outs after the NBA lockout end or after every season. Despite the numerous offers from the NBA clubs Andrei decided to finish the current season with army team.

Kirilenko played 12 official games before the injury in Samara. His averages are: 5 Euroleague games - 13.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, 3.2 blocked shots in 30.4 minutes, 3 BEKO PBL games – 4.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 1.0 blocked shots in 14.0 minutes, 4 VTB League games – 10.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.5 steals, 1.8 blocked shotes in 22.5 minutes. Andrey was named bwin Euroleague October MVP.

Andrei Vatutin, PBC CSKA President:

I think that Andrey’s long-awaited decision is the best New Year gift for all CSKA and Russian fans they could imagine. It’s great that we will meet the New Year with such good news. AK-47 did not just proved that he is the important chain of our team, tremendously valuable, dedicated player. He showed that he is a true patriot, a man who does not look for quick benefits, who tries to please basketball fans all over the country, to raise our favorite sport popularity. I am glad to know that the decision was taken by Andrey in best of interests of CSKA team, it is very important for all of us. Our club was always following “All for one and one for all” principle. I know that Kirilenko had a number of options to leave, and every option had its own value – in means of finances, life conditions, possibilities to win in the NBA. Therefore Andrey’s decision is even more valuable for us. Also I would like to thank Norilsky Nickel management again for their support of the idea to bring Kirilenko to CSKA. I would like also to wish all of us, all our fans good health and best of luck in the Year 2012.

Andrey Kirilenko, CSKA forward:

During this month I considered different options, weighting out all pros and contras, and I came to the conclusion that I should finish this season with CSKA. We developed great team chemistry, the real team in the first part of the season. It would be incorrect to stop halfway. It would be unfair toward my teammates and, more importantly, toward fans. I know how many people count on me. To play for CSKA is a great pleasure and fun, and I will do my best to win all the tournaments we are participating in. I am thankful to club’s management for patience in my difficult situation. Thank you very much to all the fans for their support! Come to our games to cheer for CSKA!