The Los Angeles Lakers have made a historic move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick’s staff, according to a report by Adrian Wojnarowski. Harding’s appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers, joining a small but growing group of female coaches in the NBA, including Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies).
Harding’s coaching credentials are impressive. She was named G League Coach of the Year last season for her outstanding work with the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ affiliate. In her debut season as head coach, Harding led the Kings to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and a semifinal appearance in the G League playoffs.
Redick’s New Staff
The Lakers’ decision to hire Lindsey Harding is part of a broader effort by new head coach JJ Redick to assemble a diverse and experienced coaching staff. Redick, who was hired in June despite lacking previous coaching experience, has surrounded himself with veteran coaches like Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks. Greg St. Jean, a former assistant under Frank Vogel, has also been retained.
Lindsey Harding Journey
Harding and Redick share a connection dating back to their college days at Duke University, where they played from 2002-06. They later reconnected in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers, and Harding was a player development coach for the team.
During her illustrious playing career, Harding was named the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. She spent nine seasons in the WNBA, playing for six different teams, and also had a successful overseas career, particularly in Turkey.
Coaching Career of Lindsey Harding
After retiring in 2017, Harding transitioned into coaching and scouting. She made history as the first black woman to be hired as a full-time scout in the NBA when she joined the Philadelphia 76ers. She later advanced to a player development coach role before being hired by the Sacramento Kings as an assistant coach in 2019.
In addition to her NBA and G League roles, Harding has coached internationally. She briefly led South Sudan’s women’s national team and currently serves as the head coach of Mexico’s women’s national team.
Looking Ahead
Lindsey Harding, hiring by the Lakers is a significant step for gender diversity in the NBA and reflects the growing acceptance and recognition of women’s contributions to professional basketball coaching. Her extensive experience, both as a player and a coach, will undoubtedly be an asset to the Lakers as they look to rebound from a disappointing first-round exit last season.
This appointment also underscores the progressive approach the Lakers are taking under JJ Redick’s leadership. By bringing in a mix of seasoned professionals and trailblazers like Harding, the Lakers are positioning themselves for both immediate success and long-term growth.
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