Laker Girl Name: Brittney

Year on Squad: second

Hometown: Laguna Niguel

Area of Residence: Ventura

College/High School: Alumni, Chapman University 2010, business administration with an emphasis in marketing

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? It’s been in my head since I was a little girl sitting on my grandpa’s lap, watching the Lakers games. I think I was a fan of the Laker Girls before I could really understand the game of basketball! Also, I love to dance. When you can mix your favorite sports team with your No. 1 hobby, you can’t go wrong.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel about you? Definitely confidence. Even though I was trembling inside, I feel you absolutely need to exude confidence in your abilities, or you won’t make it past the first few rounds.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? I feel a good Laker Girl is responsible. Also, she should have great time-management skills, a warm personality, care for herself -- as well as others and “live in the moment.”

What is your dance experience? I was a song leader in high school. I danced on dance teams and in dance studios. I majored in dance for a little while in college, but I figured I’d switch majors to something a bit more practical for myself.

Laker Girl name: Jessica

Hometown: Grapevine, Texas

Area of Residence: Downtown Los Angeles

College/High School: Grapevine High School and Oklahoma City University with a bachelor of arts in performing arts and a minor in history.

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? My dream was always to be a dancer. When I moved out to California and began auditioning, around the same time every year the buzz around the dance world was about the Laker Girls audition. The prospect of being able to dance, be a member of the premiere NBA dance team and represent the most recognized/talented team in the league was exciting to me. I was determined to audition until I made it!

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I do not know exactly what it was that made me stand out to the judges, there are so many talented and beautiful ladies who audition each year. I believe that my dance training had something to do with it and maybe that I just kept smiling the whole time.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? To be a good Laker Girl, it takes much more than looks and good dance ability. Professionalism is one of the most important qualities in all of us. There are many rehearsals, games and community events that we take part in that we must be on time for -– not to mention, be ready to put our best foot forward.

Laker Girl name: Dara

Hometown: Friendswood, Texas

Area of Residence: Thousand Oaks, CA

College/High School: I am currently enrolled at Santa Monica College with a major in Communications.

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I wanted to become a Laker Girl because it is a job that would give me the opportunity to get paid to do what I love to do which is dance! Also I would have the chance to be a part of the wonderful Lakers organization.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I honestly am not sure, but I am more than grateful that something I did was noticed.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? I think a good Laker Girl not only possesses great dance ability, but is a “people person”. She has to be an individual that is not afraid to interact with a crowd or speak in public. I feel that Laker Girls are well rounded young ladies, that carry themselves with class and represent the Lakers' organization well on and off of the court.

Laker Girl name: Angel

Hometown: Deltona, Fla.

Area of residence: Hollywood

College/high school: I went to Deltona High School in Florida and graduated in 2005. I continued my schooling for my passion in the fine arts in New York City at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA). Then proceeded to move to L.A., where I graduated [from AMDA Los Angeles] in 2007.

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? It was actually my mother who told me about the Laker Girls audition. I had just recently graduated from AMDA in April and was planning on moving back to New York to start my career. (hopefully on Broadway! musicals, theatre, etc.) But once she told me the auditions were in July, I opted to stay and audition because I knew it would be a great experience if I were to make the team. I've always wanted to be on a pro dance team since I was a little girl, so it was like a dream come true when I was picked to be on the squad.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I think my sense of "foreignism" to Los Angeles stood out to the judging panel. Going to school in New York and being trained to go to auditions very clean slated is not the trend in Los Angeles. In L.A., you dress to stand out with bright colors, you come hair and makeup ready as if you were going on a film shoot….whereas in New York, it’s usually a slicked back bun/ponytail with very little makeup and a black leotard. So I believe the judging panel appreciated that I was a little naïve.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? I truly think a well-rounded person makes a good Laker Girl. Someone who not only our youth can look up to, but even adults can strive to be. Staying healthy and fit, doing charitable functions and giving back to the community -- mainly just setting a good example for everyone. If you can impress or change one person, they have the freedom to change another. Oh, and having a love for the art of dance, of course!

This is the twelfth post of a weekly series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls (who, by the way, officially go by one name only)

Laker Girl name: Lana

Hometown: Victor Harbor, Australia

Area of Residence: Orange County, CA

College/High School: University of Washington. I attended many different high schools.

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl?I love the Lakers and wanted to dance for the best and most prestigious team in the nation!

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition?I am not sure, there were so many amazing women! (maybe that I am from Australia?)

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl?Someone that loves to dance and that shows it when they perform out on the court. Someone that also likes basketball and the Lakers of course! And lastly, someone that is kind and positive - as we interact with the community of Los Angeles quite a bit.

What is your dance experience?I grew up dancing in a studio since I was 5 years of age. I have experience in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical and hip hop.

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? I would have to say “Higher Ground” – the music is by the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

Favorite uniform?I really like our “purple ruffle” uniform.

Favorite Lakers Player?Derek Fisher, he is a great player and also a neat person.

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far?It would have to be, that we had the opportunity to work with Rihanna for the NBA All Star halftime show!

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events?I really enjoy getting to interact with all different types of people. It is also enjoyable being an ambassador for the Lakers organization and feel that I learn a lot about the different communities within L.A./Southern California.

What would you say is your beauty secret?Little corner lashes. When I still want to look good, but I am not at a game, little corner lashes give me just what I need – and they look natural!

What diet/workout tips do you have?What you eat is so important. So, I feel the most vital things are drinking a lot of water, eating a lot of vegetables/fruits and cut out fried foods! It needs to be a lifestyle. Work out at least 30 minutes a day.

What are your hobbies?I love to cook, read, travel and go horse riding (even though I’m not that good).

Career aspirations?I am really interested in Human Rights, especially having to do with child trafficking. I am looking into getting my masters degree in Human Rights and then I will see where it takes me from there.

--Mark Medina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

This is the eleventh post of a weekly series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls (who, by the way, officially go by one name only)

Laker Girl name: Ashley

Hometown: Yorba Linda, CA

Area of Residence: Yorba Linda, CA

College/High School: Fullerton Community College

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I have wanted to be Laker Girl since I was in high school because one of my dance studio instructor was a former Laker Girl. She inspired me to audition.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I think I stood out to the judges because my performance showed my commitment and professionalism as a dancer. Also, I hope they saw my excitement and emotion that I possessed as a performer.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl?I think a good Laker Girl loves to dance and perform. As well as be a dedicated representative for the Lakers organization……any Laker Girl should want to be a positive role model in our community.

What is your dance experience? I have danced since I was 7 years old. I started off with ballet tap combo classes, then began to do jazz and hip hop. When I was about 11 years of age, I moved into studio dancing and dance competitions. I made my high school dance team and danced all four years…..and now, here I am dancing my dream job as a Laker Girl!

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? My favorite routine this year would have to be a dance called "Higher Ground". It's fun to perform and I think people in the audience really enjoy it.

Favorite uniform? My favorite uniform is a two piece uniform we call "Purple mesh uniform". The skirt has layers of purple/white mesh with rhinestones sprinkled on it and the top is a halter with purple mesh.

Favorite Lakers Player? My favorite Lakers player is Kobe Bryant. He is an amazing basketball player and always pulls through when we need it the most!

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far? My favorite memory so far was winning the 2009-2010 championship against the Boston Celtics. It was amazing to be there throughout the NBA playoffs and then to be at the game – there in the moment of winning the championship! It was an unbelievable experience that I will never forget!

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events? I enjoy going out into the community and getting to know people who work with the many charitable/non-profit organizations. Not to mention, meeting all the people who show up to support these events/organizations. It fills my heart with joy when we make someone's day. It is truly amazing how much of an impact, we (as Lakers Girls) can have on someone.

What would you say is your beauty secret? My best beauty secret would have to be always wash your face before you go to bed, no matter how tired you are. It's the best way to keep your skin clear and clean.

What diet/workout tips do you have? To maintain a good diet you need to drink lots of water and eat plenty of fruits/vegetables daily. I feel this will keep you healthy and make you feel more energized. I believe cardio is the best form of exercise because you build endurance, while keeping your muscles toned.

What are your hobbies? When I'm not busy with Lakers events…….I love to go on vacation with my friends/family and just spend quality time with them. I enjoy camping, laying out by the pool, hanging out at the beach and shopping.

Career aspirations? I would like to continue dancing professionally. As well as finish my education by graduating in Human Services. One day I would love to work with children, either as a counselor or a teacher.

--Mark Medina

Twitter.com/latmedina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

This is the tenth post of a weekly series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls (who, by the way, officially go by one name only)

Laker Girl name: Erin

Hometown: Bridgewater, NJ

Area of Residence: Downtown - Los Angeles, CA

College/High School: Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I saw the Laker Girls at my very first Laker game vs. the Spurs a few years ago and I knew instantly I wanted to be in that position. I was inspired by their routines, uniforms and smiles they possessed.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? Probably how I dance on my toes! I am, and have always been, criticized about not putting my heels on the ground when I dance! I feel my ballet background makes it very difficult for me to change my style. (but, I try!)

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? Confidence and motivation to do your job well. Our schedule is always changing, as well as our uniforms, routines and places to be at! So, it is crucial to be organized. If you can accomplish that, not to mention, maintain a smile and positive attitude - you're on your way to being a good Laker Girl!

What is your dance experience? It seems I tried everything! I took classes in jazz, modern, lyrical, tap, even some salsa and merengue classes but focused on ballet. I've performed in The Nutcracker 6 times and trained at the Briansky School of Ballet in Saratoga Springs, New York. I was also part of the Towson University Dance Team during their 8th consecutive national championship title.

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? Right now, Higher Ground is my favorite routine! The song is classic rock and it’s fun to rock out to - and that's how I feel when we're performing it.

Favorite uniform? Our purple “ruffle” uniform!! It is very girly, fun and flattering!

Favorite Lakers player? Lamar Odom! He seems to have a positive attitude and since I have been on the team, I have watched him grow as a player and teammate. It's been a pleasure to watch a great player in the making.

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far? Our trip to London and Barcelona was an experience I will never forget! While in Barcelona, me and my teammates/ best friends dipped our feet into the Mediterranean Sea…. I will forever remember that moment.

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events? I love participating in events that make a difference in people’s lives. To be able to say I was a part of these events is an honor. I feel our community is very thankful we, the Laker Girls, are at these events and that is very self gratifying.

What would you say is your beauty secret?A great facial cleanser/moisturizer and hair treatment!

What diet/workout tips do you have?Try making activities fun by getting a workout through playing sports with friends……it is a great way to not feel that your workout is a chore. I think people enjoy "working out" when they are doing something they love or feeling relieved from the crazy, Los Angeles on-the-go mentality.

What are your Hobbies?I love riding my bike and cooking delicious homemade meals when I have the time!

Career aspirations? I aspire to be a buyer in the fashion industry, particularly in shoes and accessories!

--Mark Medina

Twitter.com/latmedina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

This is the eighth post of a weekly series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls (who, by the way, officially go by one name only)

Laker Girl name: Richelle

Hometown: Corona, CA

Years on the Laker Girls squad: 4 years

Area of Residence: Corona, CA

College/High School: Dance major at Cal State University of Fullerton

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl?I knew it would be an honor to represent such a world renowned brand - The Los Angeles Lakers. It would mean that I’d be a part of a professional dance team & organization! Which would involve performing at basketball games (I love sports!), and make me fall into a position where I could have the chance to be a great model for aspiring dancers/Laker Girls.

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I think it was my ability to pick up choreography, my performance at the audition and (hopefully) my personality.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? A well rounded dancer, great work ethic and professionalism in all situations.

What is your dance experience? Jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, hip hop and modern dance since I was 3 years old. In addition, I have had a couple years of International Latin (ballroom) dance instruction.

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? A routine we performed my 2nd year on the team called, Ain't Nothing Wrong With That. (Song by Robert Randolph)

Favorite uniform? A uniform this year we call, Purple "Ruffle" uniform. It is a two piece uniform that is fun and ruffly. You can't miss it.

Favorite Lakers Player? Lamar Odom

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far? The opportunity to travel pre-season with the Lakers to London and Barcelona. Great memories from that Europe trip. Best experience!

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events?I like that we are out in the community at events and charity events that people are surprised to find us at! It's great so see the joy we bring and how excited fans are to have us at the event. I enjoy making even one person's day, if I can.

What would you say is your beauty secret?Washing my face daily, taking my makeup off before I go to bed, moisturizing, sun block, regular exercise, paying attention to what I put in my body and plenty of sleep.

What diet/workout tips do you have?There is a lot of whole grain & protein in my "diet". I like to snack on veggies, fruit, special K bars, 90 calorie fiber one bars or nuts in between meals. I feel everyone should eat breakfast and not deprive yourself of food you want! It's all about moderation. Eat when your hungry and stop when you're satisfied. Also, I recommend 45mins of physical activity 4-5 days a week.

What are your Hobbies?I enjoy weight lifting, Pilates, having frozen yogurt and movie nights, watching Sports Center with my boyfriend and going to the beach.

Career aspirations?Obtain my Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in Dance. In addition, I would like to become a professional make-up artist.

--Mark Medina

Twitter.com/latmedina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

This is the seventh post of a weekly series that helps you get to know the Laker Girls (who, by the way, officially go by one name only).

Laker Girl name: Octavia

Hometown: Albuquerque, NM

Years on the Laker Girls squad: 2

Area of Residence: Los Angeles, CA

College/High School: A current student at Central New Mexico - Majoring in Business Management

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I've always wanted to be a Laker Girl since I started dancing as a child. So, I moved to LA and auditioned. What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I can honestly say, I think they noticed my hair first……then, after that, the passion in my dancing.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? I think, what makes a good Laker Girl is a well rounded person that first loves to dance and perform. Also, an individual who can be an inspiration for others, someone the community can relate to and a person who loves/appreciates the game of basketball.

What is your dance experience?I've been training in Jazz, Contemporary, and Hip-hop for 12 years.

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl?It's hard to pick one but I love performing one of our newest jazz routines to the song “Higher Ground”.

Favorite uniform?We have nicknames for all of our uniforms - so my favorite is our "black baby short" uniform. I think everyone looks great in it!

Favorite Lakers Player? Current: Derek Fisher- I admire how “down to earth” he is! Legend: Magic Johnson-he's an inspiration to us all!

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far?Being a part of the whole 2009-10 championship! Dancing at the game, being able to participate in the parade, the Championship ring ceremony……all of it!

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events?I love doing any charity/commuity events that involve kids. I like to talk with them and hopefully be an inspiration.

What would you say is your beauty secret?Drink a lot of water! It will help keep your body and skin hydrated.

What diet/workout tips do you have?Try to eat 5 times a day and excercise for at least 30 minutes, to keep your metabolism up.

What are your hobbies? I like watching football and movies. Recently, I turned my living room into a dance studio, so it's been fun going downstairs and dancing.

Career aspirations?I found a new passion for hosting, so becoming a sports broadcaster would be fun. I would also like to open my own dance studio in LA.

--Mark Medina

Twitter.com/latmedina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com

Laker Girl name: Erica

Hometown: Denver, CO

Years on the Laker Girls squad: 3

Area of Residence: Marina Del Rey

College: Graduate of Loyola Marymount University (CA)

High School: Highlands Ranch High School (Highlands Ranch, CO)

What prompted you to want to become a Laker Girl? I’ve been a dancer my entire life and from a young age, knew of the Laker Girls dance team and what it meant to me, to become one. Early on, I established auditioning for the Laker Girls and making the team as one of my key goals as a dancer. Plus, I love sports!!

What do you think stood out to the judging panel, about you, regarding your audition? I think the judges could tell from my dance audition that I was really passionate about the possibility of getting this job. It had truly been a lifelong goal. Also, in my interview, I think they could see that I understood what it takes to be a member of a professional dance team, having had prior experience.

What do you think makes a good Laker Girl? Being a Laker Girl requires dedication, attention to detail and having excellent time management! We are very busy. I also think a good Laker Girl shows a willingness to be involved in the Los Angeles community. We have the opportunity to meet just about every walk of life in Los Angeles through our charities and appearances. Not to mention, it is a tremendous opportunity to connect with fans and serve as an ambassador for the Lakers organization and NBA. Also, perhaps the most obvious about being a good Laker Girl…… is being a fan of the Lakers!

What is your dance experience? I’ve been a dancer since I was 3 years old and started with ballet training. I attended ballet-centric dance academies until I was about 11 and then started to add jazz, contemporary, hip hop and tap into my training as well.

Favorite dance routine, while being a Laker Girl? My favorite dance while being a Laker Girl was one we did my first year called “Show Me” by Janet Jackson. It’s that cool, hip, trendy sort of jazz that I don’t really get to perform that often.

Favorite uniform? My favorite uniform is one that we call “Purple Mesh.” It’s a skirt and a top that are made of white and purple mesh (naturally, hence the name) with rhinestones. I feel very girly and glamorous when we get to wear that one!

Favorite Lakers Player? Pau Gasol

Favorite Laker Girl memory so far? My favorite memory would have to be the parade and rally after we won the first of our most recent back-to-back championships. The fans during the parade were SO happy that the Lakers were able to return the title to its rightful home in Los Angeles. And the rally at the Coliseum was something I will never forget! Dancing on the transplanted STAPLES Center court at the Coliseum with 90,000+ fans celebrating together literally gave me goose bumps!

What do you like most about being involved, as a Laker Girl, at local charity/community events? The appreciation we get from the fans. Everyone is so happy that we are able to lend our time to help them, but we are just as thrilled to be there helping them out.

What would you say is your beauty secret? Wash your face every night and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!!

What diet/workout tips do you have? Try to find something that works for you and stick with it. I am a huge supporter of “everything in moderation”. Do not feel deprive yourself, or you will end up going crazy. Also, everyone knows, or should by now, that including workouts several times a week will help you achieve your goals and stay healthy.

What are your hobbies? I like playing golf (I won a long-drive contest when I was 7!!), tennis, board/yard games and keeping my dog, Jack, happy!

Career aspirations? Laker Girls has given me the opportunity to be an in-game “Lakers TV Host”, which has made me realize how much I enjoy on-camera work. I’d love to be a host, reporter or broadcaster some day in the sports or entertainment world.

--Mark Medina

Twitter.com/latmedina

E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com