The Los Angeles D-Fenders have completed their inaugural season with an overall record of 23-27, good for fourth place in the Western Division. The D-Fenders nearly missed the playoffs, falling one game shy of the final postseason spot.

"I thought that it was a pretty good season. I was disappointed that we didn't make the playoffs because we were in the driver's seat, but that is the way the ball bounces. I thought that overall it was a good season and the guys played hard," said D-Fenders Assistant Coach Chucky Brown

Although Los Angeles will not be competing in the Development League Playoffs this year, the D-Fenders did finish their season on a few high notes. Los Angeles won 4 of their last 5 home games at STAPLES Center and some D-Fenders players finished the season among league leaders in various statistical categories. Guard Brian Chase ranked first overall in free-throw percentage at 93%, forward Andre Patterson grabbed 360 rebounds this season, which was the third highest total in the league.

#4 BRIAN CHASE

What has this season meant to you and what will you take away from the experience?

"It's all motivation, starting out with the Utah Jazz, getting a taste of that level, and then getting sent down. I think that anyone in this league just wants to get there – to the NBA. It didn't happen for me this year, but it was a great experience. I have more games under my belt. I brought my all to every game, challenged myself to be consistent and perform. We [the D-Fenders] were definitely spoiled playing with the Lakers organization. Where we practiced, played, the people we talked to and worked with were just the best. It's all motivation – to make us better. I think everyone in this league just wants to get to that next level and here we really got a taste of what that takes and what it can mean."

#23 CHET MASON

You were one of only three players to be with the team for the entire season. What will you remember about this year?

"I am going to remember the early morning practices – getting up, everyday. Also, playing on the court at STAPLES Center. That was crazy. I had never even been in STAPLES Center and then I am playing on the Lakers floor. It's all about becoming a better player. You know – listen to the people who came before you. They have been there. I really want to come back next season and show what I have learned."

D-Fenders present ball to "Fans of the Year"

As part of Fan Appreciation Game, former Lakers player and current D-Fenders team mentor, A.C. Green, presented Alfred and Lyndell Wesley with a team autographed basketball in recognition of their support throughout the season. The Wesleys missed only one D-Fenders home game at STAPLES Center. Longtime Lakers fans and season-ticket holders since 1992, the Wesleys enjoyed the opportunity to sit close to the action during D-Fenders games and to interact with the players during post-game autograph sessions.

D-Fenders Brighten Day for Patients of Mattel Children's Hospital

On April 5th, the Los Angeles D-Fenders visited the Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA. In attendance were Assistant Coach Chucky Brown and players Nick Lewis, Andre Patterson, Chet Mason, Sean Banks and Jackie Manuel. The visit was held in conjunction with the hospital's Child Life/Child Development Program, which was established in 1968 in recognition of the unique needs of pediatric patients. The program was one of the first in the country and continues to be a model for other medical centers. Players and patients enjoyed an afternoon of arts and crafts, board games and of course, a few games of basketball. The highlight of the afternoon, however, was the Easter Egg Hunt.