AboutTHE MACHINE
SASHA VUJACIC aka THE MACHINE
Sasha Vujacic’s basketball journey began in Slovenia, a country of just two million people, where he spent endless hours honing his craft. His talent led him to Italy’s competitive leagues, and in 2004, he was selected 27th overall in the NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
In Los Angeles, Sasha found himself surrounded by greatness. Under the mentorship of Kobe Bryant, he learned the value of discipline, preparation, and relentless dedication. He also had the privilege of playing under Phil Jackson, the greatest coach in NBA history, who helped shape his understanding of the game. Sasha became a key player for the Lakers, known for his shooting and tenacity, and played a crucial part in securing two NBA championships, including his clutch free throws in Game 7 of the 2010 Finals.
Now, after years of playing at the highest level, Sasha is giving back through The Machine Basketball Academy. His mission is to pass on the skills, mindset, and discipline he learned from the best, helping young athletes develop into well-rounded players and competitors. From Slovenia to the NBA and now to the next generation, Sasha’s journey is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the power of mentorship.
Sasha & Kobe in the 2010 NBA Finals
Sasha coaching Cade Cunningham in NBA Program
LAUNCHING THE MACHINE BASKETBALL ACADEMY
Towards the latter stages of his career, Sasha assumed the role of ambassador and president of the Saga Ballooners, a professional basketball team in Japan that he and his brother, Al, built from the ground up. Their vision was to establish a competitive team centered around the renowned Triangle Offense, emphasizing strong fundamentals and a resilient mindset. Under their leadership, the team thrived, ultimately securing a place in Japan's first division.
In addition to their work with the Saga Ballooners, Sasha and Al launched a highly successful youth development program, identifying and nurturing untapped talent in the region. Their commitment to fostering young athletes helped shape the next generation of basketball players.
Following his retirement from professional basketball, Sasha has remained deeply involved in the sport. He has actively participated in numerous NBA-led camps, scouting and coaching emerging talents who aspire to reach the highest levels of the game. Additionally, he has contributed to Lakers-run development programs, continuously challenging the modern "participation trophy" mentality by instilling a culture of discipline and excellence in young athletes.
Now, Sasha is dedicated to expanding his impact on youth basketball by founding The Machine Basketball Academy. This elite training program will not only provide aspiring players with top-tier basketball instruction but also instill in them a strong, winning mentality—directly guided by Sasha’s expertise and experience.
