NBA All-Star Andrei Kirilenko has been named Russia's captain for their Efes Pilsen Cup games this week.

The 24-year-old forward, who plays for the Utah Jazz, will lead his country into games against Turkey - the tournament's hosts - and France in Group A.

Kirilenko is delighted to have been handed the skipper's armband.

He said on the official website of the Basketball Federation of Russia: "I'd like to thank all the guys for the confidence they have in me.

"It's a great honour for me to be Russia captain but it's also a great responsibility.

"As a captain, I'll try to be a leader not only on the court but also off it."

Slovenia, Italy and Serbia & Montenegro will take their place in Group B for the tournament which is being used as a warm-up event ahead of the EuroBasket next month.