Nets News: Mikhail Prokhorov Says Losing $144 Million Was "Not A Big Deal"

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Rumors of a potential sale of the Brooklyn Nets by owner Mikhail Prokhorov appear to have been greatly exaggerated.

"My position is that I will not give up control of the team, but you know I'm quite happy when somebody is sending me a nice offer without taking my controlling interest," Prokhorov said, via an Associated Press reeport on Monday. "I think for the time being nothing is imminent, but still I think it's not bad just to listen."

Prokhorov purchased the team in 2010 and set a goal of winning a title in five years. He remains dedicated to achieving that aim.

"I stay committed to the championship. I think if the stars align, we can do this," Prokhorov stated.

And what about that ESPN.com report which indicates the Nets' basketball operations department lost $144 million last season?

"It's not a big deal just because I personally compensated this money from my pocket and that's why I will keep the structure for the time being," Prokhorov said.

Despite plenty of anxiety and swirling speculation outside of the Nets' offices, Prokhorov remains calm and collected and focused on the journey ahead - even if he has a barb or two regarding the controversy that led to former Nets head coach Jason Kidd being shipped to the Milwaukee Bucks.

"There is a nice proverb in English. Don't let the door hit you where the good Lord has split you," Prokhorov quipped.

"I think we shouldn't get mad, I think we should get even and we'll see it on the court."

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