The billionaire believes silence is golden.

Future Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov refused to discuss any details of his meeting Monday with Nets president Rod Thorn when interviewed yesterday at the Olympics in Vancouver.

NJ.com reports Prokhorov, president of the Russian Biathlon Union, would talk only of that sport and not basketball, despite the efforts of writer Dave D’Alessandro.

“No basketball. I cannot comment. The lawyers told me I cannot speak,” Prokorhov said, fearful because his purchase of the Nets has not yet been approved by NBA owners. “As soon as deal is … closed, I have summit.”

Asked directly about Monday’s meeting with Thorn, Prokorhov said, “I don’t know. No comment, please.”

Asked about the NBA in general, the oligarch said, “No. I am newcomer. I need time.”

Involved in the strategy and finance of the Russian biathlon team, the man worth an estimated $18 billion said his other sports are “Kick-boxing, freestyle jet skiing, windsurfing, acrobatics and trampoline.”

Thorn, back with the Nets in Charlotte, N.C., last night, also declined comment on his meetings with Prokhorov in Vancouver.