He Keeps the Lakers Running

As athletic trainer for the Lakers, Gary Vitti works hard at keeping the players in top physical form to compete in the grueling sport of pro basketball. It’s no stretch to say that Vitti’s expertise has helped the team, whose players include Sean Rooks, right, get a leg up on the competition. The trainer’s other pregame chores include taping the players, like Nick Van Exel.

Vitti, 43, who has been with the Lakers for 14 years, frequently lectures on fitness and sports medicine.