Andrei Kirilenko elected president of Russian Basketball Federation

Andrei Kirilenko is going to get his chance to rescue Russian basketball.

The former NBA All-Star was unanimously elected the new president of the Russian Basketball Federation on Tuesday, putting him at the head of an organization in crisis. Kirilenko was largely unopposed, beating out Russian team general manager Dmity Domani, who withdrew from consideration.

The Russian federation has been at odds with FIBA for several years, only recently getting a suspension lifted that will make them eligible for 2016 Olympic qualifying. Ranked as the No. 6 men's basketball team by FIBA, Russia should be in good shape to make the 2016 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament through EuroBasket 2015 next month, if not qualify for the Olympics outright.

Kirilenko ran on a platform of improving trust within and around the organization, with a goal of improving the popularity of the sport domestically. He hopes to use his high profile to attract sponsors, better management techniques, and more young players to the national team.

A 13-year NBA veteran, Kirilenko officially announced his retirement in June. He averaged 11.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.8 blocks over 797 games with three teams, earning All-Defensive Team honors on three occasions.

Perhaps even more decorated internationally, Kirilenko won FIBA Europe Player of the Year in 2007 and 2012, EuroBasket MVP in 2008, Euroleague MVP in 2012, and Russian league MVP as far back as 2000. He competed for Russia internationally at the 2000, 2008, and 2012 Olympics, winning a bronze medal in 2012.