Avery To Moscow ...and Vilnius?

Mikhail Prokhorov annually hosts a basketball game in Moscow to benefit one of his favorite causes, PROBasket100, the highlight of which is watching the gazillionaire Nets owner (and now politician) man the low post.  He's not a bad passer. Proceeds will go to victims of a Russian cruise ship sinking.

Every year as well, Prokhorov brings in top talent for the game, having previously recruited Hall of Famers Scottie Pippen, Avydas Sabonis and Russian great Sergei Belov. This year, it's Avery Johnson who will play in September 6 game, hold basketball seminars and no doubt attend meetings with Prokhorov and Sergey Kuschenko, who will also play.

In addition, there's word Johnson and other front office types will travel to nearby Vilnius, Lithuania for the FIBA Eurobasket title round, where hopefully Bojan Bogdanovic and Croatia will be among the competitors.

• Avery to visit Russia, play game with Prokhorov - Al Iannazzone - In the 'Zzone
• Nets coach Avery Johnson going to Russia next week - Star-Ledgerf