With a population of just around 5,000, Anja griped that “not much is ever going on” in Kranjska Gora. So when word came out that the Slovenian national basketball team will be practicing in her home town, her excitement went through the roof as the prospect of finally meeting Sasha Vujacic seemed very feasible.

She ardently went to the team practices and exhibition games against Russia and although she didn’t get to meet her favorite Lakers player, Anja is still excitedly looking forward to finally watching Sasha represent their country in EuroBasket.

How long have you been a fan? What was it about Sasha that first caught your attention?

The first time I heard of Sasha was about two years ago. I was watching a Lakers game with my friend J — who is next to me right now as I’m typing this; I must give him a shout-out and say he is also a great basketball player — and he pointed at Sasha and told me he is from Slovenia. That really brought my attention to him. I’m always very, very proud and excited to see someone from our country having a success outside our borders.

What are some of your favorite things about Sasha?

The thing I love the most about him is how ambitious he is. He really proves that “everything is possible.” And I love that he stayed so grounded after all the success he has had.

Do you have a favorite Sasha moment or game?

Game 3, last year’s Finals, of course. That was an epic Sasha moment.

Are you able to watch the NBA games where you live?

They only air two or three NBA games per week on TV here. It’s hard to watch the games live because of the time difference. The games usually start around 3 A.M. here. Most people watch reruns the next day, but I always watch them live. It’s actually a lot of fun because I work in a casino at night and I watch the games during my breaks with co-workers. A lot of them were cheering for Orlando in this year’s Finals. Of course I had to place some bets with them and, yes, I earned a lot of money when Lakers won!

Do you have any game watching rituals? Tell us about your gameday look.

No, I don’t have any special rituals. A good company and a six pack of beer and I’m ready for the game. But I did paint my nails purple & gold when Lakers won the championship. My little tribute to them.

What is it like being a fan in Slovenia?

I was at our national team’s game recently. Sasha didn’t play, but I caught a conversation some young boys who were sitting next to me had about him. He is really a big inspiration to young basketball players here in Slovenia. They look up to him and hope to be like him one day. He’s a great role model for these children.

What do you think of Sasha playing for the Slovenian national team this year?

It’s very exciting. Everyone has been waiting for so long to see Sasha play for our national team. He is determined that we are going to win EuroBasket and that’s what the team needs — someone with that positive energy! And it’s great that all European fans will finally be able to see him play. I will definitely be at the games cheering for our team!!

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

Saša, najboljši si!!