April 13, 2006

UCLA Basketball power forward/center Lorenzo Mata showed that he is not only a rising star on the basketball court, but in the community as well. The 6'9'' nineteen-year-old spoke to a captive audience of children at Team Prime Time, an after school program for at-risk youth held at Daniel Webster Middle school in West Los Angeles.

The afternoon began with a brief introduction by TPT Executive Director Peter Straus, who praised Mata for aspects of his game and of his character. Straus commended Mata for being the ultimate team player, as well as for his commitment to following his lifelong dream of becoming a Bruin despite offers to play at other top programs across the country.

Following the introduction, there was a brief Q&A in which Lorenzo shared important lessons with the children about his experiences playing basketball for UCLA.

"I could have gone to other programs where I would have gotten more playing time, but I decided to follow my dream of coming to UCLA." Central to the discussion were the kinds of sacrifices a UCLA basketball player must make. Mata spoke of the sacrifices he must continue to make in order to uphold the rigorous academic standards of being a Bruin. The kids clearly understood his message that they, too, must dedicate themselves to achieving their own goals, and the sooner they start, the better their chance of success.

After the Q&A, Mata and Team Manager Jason Ludwig ran a few drills to give the PRIME TIMERS a glimpse of how a top college basketball program practices. First, a defensive drill was run in which eighth-grader Rodney Brooks learned how to "front" Mata and deny him an entry pass. Although clearly intimidated by the domineering 4'10'' Brooks, Mata was able to show enough composure to make a shot. Following the dribbling drills came the highlight of the afternoon: a One-on-One contest in which each of the kids got a shot at going head-to-head with one of UCLA's finest. The contest began with a bang, as 6th graders Daniel and Tony McLaurin sank jumpers over Mata's outstretched arms.

Mata's visit to Prime Time was an overwhelming success. TPT kids were given critical life lessons about education and dedication from a person for whom they have the utmost admiration. In addition to providing a great experience for Team Prime Time, Lorenzo enjoyed himself as well, stating that he was "grateful for any opportunity to help his community, and would do it again anytime he has the chance." Don't worry, Lorenzo, the kids are already working on their game in anticipation of your return.