CSKA president: Kirilenko’s early departure to the NBA will depend on himself only

CSKA Moscow president Andrey Vatutin commented on the signing of a three-year contract with Andrey Kirilenko, saying the club was well aware of the risks of the forward’s possible early departure back to the NBA.

«When the lockout began in the NBA, we believed it was wrong to sign someone who can come back there at any moment. But after a lot of thinking we decided there should be an exception for Andrey. He is a special player for CSKA and for Russian basketball in general.

«We are well aware of the risks of his early departure and take them deliberately. In my opinion, Andrey’s signing has no drawbacks. Even if he leaves the team after a month or two, – which will depend on himself only – Kirilenko will take part in several matches, and his participation will increase the interest to our team.»