I will put my soul into hard work to achieve the goal

The older brother Rodion was born in 1998, Arthur is two years younger, and Ilya was born in July 2007. In 2015, Rodion and Artūrs moved from Latvia to Spain, where they continued the development of their basketball career.

“I remember that time very well, I am very happy for them. We all had a dream to play basketball abroad,” Ilya, who was only seven or eight years old at the time, remembered the brothers’ move to Spain.

Comparing his game with the skills and talents of his brothers, Ilya believes that his body is similar to Rodion’s contours, while his throwing technique is similar to Arthur’s.

“Both brothers were an example to me, but the main person who helped me grow in basketball was my grandfather. He has been training me since I was born.”

Unlike Rodion and Artur, who moved to Spain when they were teenagers, the younger brother has chosen a different path – he studies at the “Get Better” academy in the Czech Republic.

“This is a place where the coaches work for the players and not to win titles,” Ilya Kurucs said of his experience in the Czech Republic.

Also, the recently gained experience in the Euroleague youth tournament was a valuable experience, after which conclusions can be drawn.

“I saw that I need to play more aggressively, make more passes to the basket, and also use the strengths of my skills.”

Ilya Kurucs admits that he wants to beat his brothers to be the best basketball player in the family.

“I believe that the fact that my brothers are talented basketball players gives me an advantage and recognition. However, I feel that I have my own path in life and I want to be judged by my actions in life and in basketball,” said the younger brother.

“I want to become the best basketball player in the Kuruc family. I will put my soul into hard work to achieve this goal.”