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We recently caught up with D-Fenders Center, Nick Vander Laan, and asked him a few questions about life in the NBA Development League, his life off the court and what he's been doing during the off-season. . .
You joined the D-Fenders late in the season last year. Where did you come from and how was your experience in the D-League?
Nick: I had just finished playing a full season in the CBA with the Butte,  Montana Daredevils. I was an All-Star and lead the CBA in rebounding. My experience in the D-League was great. It was very professional. The D-Fenders and the Lakers organization really go out for their team, it was great.
We heard that you recently returned to the States from playing basketball overseas, where were you and how was that experience?
Nick: After the D-Fenders season ended, I had a great opportunity to join a team over in Spain, so I went and played for Ricoh Manresa, Spain. While I was out there, the team went 7-0 and we won the league championship. It's always a great experience winning a championship.
What are some of the differences between the international game versus the game here in the States?
Nick: The tempo of the game is different, it's quicker. Over there you play only four ten minute quarters and there's no media timeouts. Your overall time spent in the gym goes faster. There's also no offensive goal tending and the three-point line is closer.
When traveling on the road, what are five (5) things you can't live without?
 Nick:
1) My Bible
2) My iPod
3) My Sonicare Tooth Brush
4) Gum, lately I've been chewing Orbitz Spearmint
5) My Oakley Sunglasses
The D-League continues to grow with four expansion teams set to begin play next season (Des Moines, IA; Ft. Wayne, IN; Hidalgo, TX; and Orem, UT). Are you excited about the future of the D-League?
Nick: Yes, the NBA is doing a great job really getting the D-League visible. It's just getting better and better.
What other sports did you play growing up?
Nick: Growing up I swam and in high school I played football. I was a tight end and defensive end. I didn't play football in college but I worked out over at Athletes Performance Center in Carson (CA) and prior to this past season they hosted a Pro Football Workout Day and I was invited and I worked out for one of the Head Scouts of the Kansas City Chiefs. They were looking at me for Defensive End. At 6'9, 255 lbs., I ran a 4.92 forty, I benched 225 lbs. eighteen times and had a 30 vertical jump. The Chicago Bears also looked at me, but nothing ever panned out.
How old and how tall were you when you first dunked a basketball?
Nick: I was a freshman in high school...I was 14 or 15 and was 6'3 at the time.
Which basketball player did you admire growing up?
Nick: Larry Bird, Charles Barkley and Hakeem Olajuwon. Olajuwon was a great player and he doesn't get enough props.
Where did you go to college?
Nick: I finished at Concordia University in Irvine. I was the starting center and was a first team NAIA All-American.
If you could be great at any other sport, what would it be and why?
Nick: That's a good question...it would probably be football because I like all the physical contact.
 You currently live in Long Beach (CA) do you ever participate in any other sports recreationally? Beach Volleyball? Etc.?
Nick: Yah, I like to body-board and fish.
What's your dream car?
Nick: A 1996 Chevy Impala SS.
Off the court, are you involved in supporting any charity organizations?
Nick: Yes, I help my church, Worship Generation in Fountain Valley, CA with their youth program. Our Pastor is former pro surfer Joey Burran.
What are your plans for your life after your basketball career? Any interest in coaching, player management, or becoming part of a front office with an organization?
Nick: Possibly front office with an organization or become a strength and conditioning coach. But my primary is to be a husband and a father.
What are you plans for the rest of the summer/off-season?
Nick: Right now, I'm just waiting to hear about the summer league and I hope to get on with an NBA summer pro league team.
Do you have any advice for the kids out there who are hoping to play pro basketball some day?
Nick: Work as hard as you can and follow the desire that God has put in your heart.
Nick Vander Laan - Fast Facts
In only 5 games last season with the D-Fenders, Nick pulled down 62 rebounds; including a D-Fenders season  high 19 rebounds against the Idaho Stampede on April 14, 2007. He averaged 12.4 rebounds per game with the D-Fenders.
Date of Birth: Oct 27, 1979
Height: 6'9
Weight: 255 lbs.
Position: Center
Favorite Food: BBQ
Favorite type of Music: Christian Rock
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Sixth Edition, Jul. 2, 2007
