Participants in our game time chats are probably familiar with Jacques Njoya and his eternally optimistic outlook. “Don’t worry, we will win,” he reassures us during anxious moments. Like Sasha, Jacques has an international background. The 25-year-old pharmacy student was born in Douala, Cameroon, moved to France at age 18 and now resides in Kansas City, Mo.

How long have you been a fan? What has it been like in all the places where you have lived?

I have been a Lakers fan since 1996, and a Sasha fan since last year.

I was a big fan even when I lived in Cameroon. In France, it was easy to be a fan because everyone likes American basketball. Georges Eddy is a famous American commentator in France that influenced almost every French basketball fan. In the United States, it is different because you can watch every single game live. In France, we were only able to watch the games during the playoffs since the French channels don’t broadcast their regular season games.

I also turned my girlfriend into a huge fan of the Lakers and Sasha. She had never even watched a basketball game until a few years ago and now she watches every game with me.

What was it about Sasha that first caught your attention?

His accuracy and sharpness on the court, and his three-pointers of course! Last year during the playoffs, he amazed everyone with his talent.

What are some of your favorite things about Sasha?

I love his quickness, defense and his excitement when he’s playing. I also like how real he is with his fans; he seems like such a down to earth person.

Do you have a favorite Sasha moment or game?

The infamous “facial dunk” during the game against the Kings!

During the game time chats, you are known for believing that things will work out in the end. What gives you that optimism?

I am always optimistic in nature; it’s just a part of my character. Also, after being a Lakers fan for so long, I always know that they will come out on top.

If you could say one thing to Sasha, what would it be?

GO MACHINE!!! We got this!