A few weeks ago, we told Michigan fan Justin Pennisi that we’d see if Sasha had any hair-growing tips for him. Well, something even better happened: Justin got to ask Sasha himself!

Here, Justin shares his experience attending his first Lakers game – against the Detroit Pistons last Thursday – and meeting his role model in person.

Meeting Sasha Vujacic: my role model
By Justin Pennisi

The day was Thursday, March 26, 2009. A date I will always remember in my life. This extraordinary day started perfectly. Outside, the sky was Pacific Ocean blue, the air was warm, the sun was shining. I even was able to borrow my grandmother’s car for the day to drive to school with all the windows down to soak in the day. Another Los Angeles day? Nope, not even close. I was in Michigan waiting for my first Los Angeles Lakers game!

I began the school day with grueling AP Calculus test. All I could think about were the warm-ups, the starting lineup announcements, Kobe Bryant leading the Lakers into a significant road game, Phil Jackson’s coaching milestone, Pau Gasol’s presence in the paint, Sasha Vujacic’s energy off the bench, and how the Lakers game was hours away. It turns out I did just fine on the test, so all is well.

I arrived at the Palace of Auburn of Hills with my aunt and two friends, Dan Chavis and Mervin Montante. We all got situated and took in the electric atmosphere. I watched all the Laker players warm up. While the starting lineups f r the Lakers were being announced, I was expecting some “boos” but I was impressed how well all the dedicated Laker fans travel with the team, so we were all cheering.

Then the game started. It began well for the Lakers in the first quarter, but the bench had a rough second quarter. All the Laker players kept on fighting even though the Pistons seemed to be hitting all of their shots. Halftime came along and I saw Sasha go into the tunnel with a frustrated but determined look on his face. I knew I was in for a monumental second half.

I eagerly watched the second half shootaround. I thought it was hilarious how Sasha waited for the clock to run to one second as to practice a buzzer beater shot and he swished it like it was no big deal.

The second half set in motion and the LA players came out battling. Kobe and Pau started to take control of the game. It was unbelievable seeing those two working together to will the team to a victory. However, no victory is possible without the help of every teammate. This is where the Laker bench took its pivotal role. Sasha entered the game along with Jordan. Sasha ran around a screen and hit an amazing all-net three-point shot. After that, the momentum changed. Sasha drew an offensive foul, which I liked because little things add up in life. Finally, the “MVP” chants started to surface and the game was practically over. The Lakers ended up winning the game easily. What a great first Lakers game!

After the exhilarating game, my aunt, Dan, Merv and I waited around the tunnel to meet Sasha. Sasha walked out and I was in awe. I admit I was a little star-struck and probably was smiling as wide as NYC to LA. Sasha was very down to earth. We all talked about the game, the “Machine” videos, the high security at the Palace, Slovenia, and I even got some advice for Sasha hair. Sasha laughed and said, “Just be patient.” So, I guess while I am off to college next semester, all the girls will have to be patient for the hair to grow! Sasha was very polite as to sign some autographs and take a few pictures. As he was leaving, I shared with him a quote to remember for the playoffs: “Always forward, never backwards!” and he seemed to like it.

All in all, the day was one to remember. I met my role model and realized how to live a life with enthusiasm and passion just as Sasha plays on the basketball court. Sasha has really had an impact on my life. Even though a lot of people I know might think this is ridiculous, I have my reasons. I learned how to just be myself in whatever I do, live with passion and break the paradigm.