The Los Angeles D-Fenders' 12-man roster is a mix of recent college players hoping to play in the NBA, and a handful of veterans who have had a taste of the big time in what they call "The League" and hope to return there.
Their journey has taken them to the NBA Development League, where they ply their craft with the Lakers' affiliate, waiting and hoping for a call from one of the 30 NBA teams.
Vander Blue, Jamaal Franklin, Malcolm Thomas and Justin Harper are D-Fenders who have all played in NBA regular-season games, and the road back to the minor leagues has tested their perseverance.