Andrei Kirilenko

Guide Note

Andrei Kirilenko is an All-Star forward for the Utah Jazz. He is widely regarded as an excellent defender, shot blocker and versatile scorer.

Fast Facts

1. Born: February 18, 1981
2. Nickname: AK-47
3. Birth Place: Izhevsk, Urals
4. Height: 6'9"
5. Weight: 227 lbs
6. Number: 47

Andrei Gennadevich Kirilenko was born in Izhevsk, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union on February 18, 1981. He would be raised in St. Petersburg where he would play basketball in various Russian leagues. In 1999, he would declare himself eligible for the NBA Draft.

Kirilenko would be drafted with the 24th pick in the 1999 draft by the Utah Jazz. He would establish himself as premiere power forward in the league and after the retirement of John Stockton and Karl Malone would become the face of the franchise. With the additions of Deron Williams, and Carlos Boozer his role on the team would diminish to third option. But he is still regarded as a dangerous scorer, and is highly sought after by other teams in trade talks. In 2007 , he would lead the Russian team to the Gold medal in the European Championships.

• February 18, 1981: Born
• 1999: Drafted By Utah Jazz
• 2001: Finally Joins Utah Jazz
• 2004: NBA All-Star