Kelly McCartyRussian National Team coach David Blatt talked to Sport-Express about the possibility of seeing either of Kelly McCarthy or Travis Hansen playing for the Russian NT in the Eurobasket 2009 in Poland, next September.

When asked about Khimki's guard Kelly McCarthy David Blatt stated:
 
"I talked to McCarthy and I liked what I heard. Most of all I liked his positive attitude. He made me understand that he understands the responsibility of playing for the Russian National Team and at the same time he is ready and committed to join us if called to the squad"
 
As for Travis Hansen, the American Dynamo Moscow head-coach was not so optimistic.
 
"Travis Hansen's case is a bit difficult. It is yet to be determined if he will return to Russia at all. One thing is for sure, he will not return to Dynamo Moscow. Is he willing to play for the Russian National Team? He didn't sound very willing. For me motivation is one of the main criteria when it comes to choosing players and most guys in the squad come ready to prove themselves.
 
In any case and if both Andrei Kirilenko and JR Holden decide to sit out of the Eurobaskket 2009 I believe that McCarthy will be of more value to our team than Hansen."