Andrei Kirilenko

Andrei Kirilenko is a basketball player for the NBA's Utah Jazz. The 6-9 forward from Russia is one of the most versatile players in the League - especially on the defensive end of the court - and is also known by his nickname: AK47.

After a very successful career in youth basketball and at European powerhouse CSKA Moscow, Kirilenko joined the Utah Jazz in 2001. He quickly adapted to the American game and after John Stockton and Karl Malone left the team in 2003, Kirilenko was the designated heir as franchise player.

2003-04 was Kirilenko's best season as he made the All-Star Game and ranked in the top-five in both steals and blocks. Injuries and the arrival of bruising power forward Carlos Boozer and point guard Deron Williams have since relegated AK47's importance to the team and he publicly complained about his role and relationship with Coach Jerry Sloan.

In 2007, Kirilenko led a surprising Russian team to the European Championship and won the MVP - repeating a feat he accomplished in the under-18 European Championships exactly ten years before.

Created by: Ole