Following a stellar prep career in Fresno, Mike Penberthy enrolled in The Master's College in 1993 with high expectations. He didn't disappoint. After learning the college game during his freshman campaign, Mike exploded over the next three years to establish himself as, arguably, the greatest player in the history of the program. 

Leading the Mustangs to the first four of seven consecutive appearances in the NAIA National Tournament, Mike burst on the national scene with a lethal jumper and the ability to change the course of a game in just a few trips down the court. As a senior during the 1996-97 season, he was the second-leading scorer in the nation (27.5ppg), established a new single-season scoring mark with 852 points, and earned NAIA First-Team All-American honors for the second consecutive year. Mike owns career records for points scored (2,616), three-pointers made (444), and free throw percentage (87.9).

Graduating with a bachelor of arts in biblical studies in 1997, Mike began to pursue a professional basketball career immediately. He started in Germany, played some for AIA, had a brief stint in the CBA with Quad Cities, and then returned to Germany before getting his big chance. Fresh off an outstanding summer league performance in 2000, Mike landed a contract with the Los Angeles Lakers and earned an NBA championship ring in June of 2001. Released the following season, he headed to Naples, Italy, with his wife, Wendy, where he has been playing for Pompea Napoli.

Although, he has not been able to really serve in a local church due to his travel, Mike has been able to use his job as a professional basketball player as a platform for the Gospel. Many players, teammates and opponents alike, have asked him why he leads the life he does and he is able to share his faith. Mike and Wendy have two sons, Ty and Jaden.