Lindsey Harding Joins JJ Redick's Coaching Staff with the Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers made a historic move this week, hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick’s staff. Harding becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers, joining a league where trailblazers like Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies) are already making their marks.
Harding's path to the Lakers has been anything but ordinary. She previously helmed the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings' G League affiliate, where she was instrumental in the team's success. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and made it to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her efforts were recognized with the G League Coach of the Year honor last season.
Her coaching career began in earnest in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. Harding had already broken new ground before then, becoming the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. During her time with the 76ers, she also served as a player development coach, laying the foundation for her future coaching endeavors.
Harding's basketball journey started well before her coaching career. As an athlete, she was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. She played nine seasons in the WNBA, competing for six different teams, and also showcased her talent on international courts, most notably in Turkey. After retiring in 2017, Harding transitioned to coaching and player development roles, even briefly serving as the head coach for South Sudan's women's national team. Currently, she is the head coach of Mexico's women's national team.
Earlier this year, Harding was a strong candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, although the position ultimately went to Charles Lee. Her extensive experience and recognized leadership skills made her a standout contender.
The reunion of JJ Redick and Lindsey Harding with the Lakers' organization adds another layer of depth to their professional relationship. Both athletes have shared the court before, having played at Duke University from 2002 to 2006. Their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick was playing for the 76ers and Harding was serving as a player development coach.
As Redick assembles his coaching team, he has made it clear that he values seasoned expertise and familiar faces. His staff also includes notable veterans such as Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean. This blend of experience is expected to bring a new level of strategy and insight to the Lakers, who aim to bounce back from an early playoff exit last season.
Harding’s appointment is a significant step forward for gender diversity in the NBA coaching ranks. Her addition to Redick's staff not only symbolizes breaking new ground but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring coaches everywhere.
The season ahead holds much promise with Lindsey Harding on board, contributing her wealth of experience and innovative approach to the game. The basketball community will be watching closely to see the impact she will have on the Lakers’ journey.