Andrei Kirilenko, a former NBA star and pioneer for Russian basketball, shares his fascinating journey from a teenage pro in Russia to the NBA. He reflects on his rookie experience with legends Karl Malone and John Stockton, his rise to All-Star status, and how he embraced leadership in Utah. Kirilenko discusses the pressure of being a top defender, his transition to the Brooklyn Nets, and even his love for gaming, specifically World of Warcraft. He also touches on the pride of representing Russia on the Olympic stage and the evolution of international players in the NBA.
Andrei Kirilenko shares his inspiring journey from a 15-year-old pro in Russia to an NBA All-Star, blazing trails for international players.
The podcast highlights the challenges faced by foreign players adapting to the NBA's competitive environment alongside legends like Karl Malone and John Stockton.
The discussion emphasizes the NBA's evolution towards a perimeter-oriented game, showcasing the influence of players like Steph Curry on modern basketball techniques.
Deep dives
The Premise of 'Carry On'
'Carry On' is an action-packed thriller that centers around a young TSA agent caught in a moral dilemma during the chaotic Christmas Eve travel rush. He faces a grave choice: to allow a dangerous package to pass through security, thereby endangering numerous lives, or to prioritize the safety of his pregnant girlfriend at the risk of the passengers. This intense situation highlights the high stakes involved in airport security, especially during a peak travel period. The film, featuring stars like Taryn Edgerton and Jason Bateman, promises to deliver relentless action and suspense.
Sponsorship Highlights
The podcast highlights sponsorship contributions from various brands. Kleenex Lotion Tissues are promoted for their ability to help prepare listeners for sick days, providing extra moisture to protect sensitive skin against irritation during cold and flu season. This adds a practical angle to the podcast, reminding listeners to take care of their health and well-being. In addition, the mention of Glad Force Flex Drawstring Trash Bags featuring Pine Sol Original Scent emphasizes the product's functional benefits, promoting cleanliness and freshness in homes.
Guest Insights on NBA Journey
A special guest reflects on their time in the NBA, discussing the intensity of competition and the challenges faced while playing alongside legends like Kobe Bryant and John Stockton. They share stories of their early career, including key moments of adjustment when entering the league from a different country. The guest emphasizes the importance of teamwork, hard work, and resilience in establishing themselves as a valuable player within the larger framework of their teams. This conversation provides insight into the personal experiences of professional athletes beyond just the game.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The guest expresses pride in their journey as a pioneer for international players in the NBA, showcasing how their success serves as inspiration for younger generations. They recognize the increasing influence of international talent in the league, noting that many players now come from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the global appeal of basketball. This evolution reflects a cultural shift within the sport, as more international players make significant contributions to their teams. Celebrating these changes highlights the unifying power of sports in bridging cultural gaps.
Reflections on NBA Evolution
The guest delves into how the NBA has transformed over the years, shifting from a focus on traditional center play to a more perimeter-oriented game. They credit players like Steph Curry for revolutionizing the sport with their long-range shooting, making it acceptable for even big men to shoot threes. This evolution signifies a dramatic change in how basketball is played and coached, influencing player development from youth leagues to professional levels. This expansion of playing styles underscores the dynamic nature of the game and its adaptability to new trends and techniques.
Straight outta Russia this week! None other than AK47, aka Andrei Kirilenko, joins the show. The trio talk about his unique journey from 15-year-old Russian Super League pro to 18-year-old NBA draftee, the rookie experience under Hall of Famers Karl Malone and John Stockton, earning an NBA All-Star selection and becoming a true trailblazer for Russian hoopers. Tune in for the full AK47 story!
St. Petersburg childhood, Super League at 15, drafted to the Utah Jazz (3:00)
D Miles in Russia, nickname origin story, Jerry Sloan’s system (14:00)
Malone and Stockton, NBA All-Star selection, becoming a leader in Utah (27:45)
2005 blocks leader, NBA lockout, moving to Minnesota (36:55)
Joining the Nets, playing with KG and Paul Pierce, World of Warcraft (48:00)
2012 Olympic bronze, the rise of international players in the NBA, recording two 5x5 stat lines (55:00)
About Our Hosts:
NBA veterans Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles are lifelong friends and bona fide truth-tellers. Listen as they invite special guests, high-profile athletes, musicians and entertainers to get brutally honest about everything from current events to untold stories from the golden era of sports and culture. Named for the on-court celebration they made wildly popular, this unfiltered, hilarious and surprising podcast is like playing NBA 2K with no fouls.