According to Russian sources, American coach David Blatt has decided not to renew his contract with the Russian Basketball Federation.
As the Russian Basketball Federation has officially announced the experienced coach rejected their latest contract renewal offer.
During the Blatt era, Russia National Team achieved the best results of its history, winning the Gold medal in Eurobasket 2007, the Bronze medal in Eurobasket 2011 and 2012 London Olympic Games.
David Blatt commented on his departure: “It is with mixed feeling that I have to announce my departure from the Russian NT, which has been an important part of my coaching career. I strongly believe that my departure comes in the right time, due to personal reasons. Our joint achievements have been exceptional and are of historic significance, as we had a deep impact on basketbasll development in Russia.
I want to thank the Russian Basketball Federation for inviting me here and giving me the chance to work with such talented Russian players. I want to thank the players who worked hard to meet my demands and sacrificed quite a lot to be able to achieve great things for the country and the sport.
I am greatful to all the coaching staff, managers and employees who did everything they could so we could achieve such results.
And of course I would like to thank all the Russians who believes in me and made me feel as one of them. They made me feel like a part of the country and society and I shall never forget this and never forget my friends.
It has been an exceptional 7 years, I leave my job with a sense of pride and happiness, knowing that the Russian NT is now at its development peak. Russian basketball is now very well recognised and respected world wide, with a bright future ahead. I will miss all these. It has been a privilege working with you. Farewell!”
