The Los Angeles Lakers have made a historic move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's staff. Harding, who brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the team, is the first woman to coach for the Lakers in the franchise's storied history.
Harding joins a small but growing group of women actively coaching in the NBA, which includes Jenny Boucek of the Indiana Pacers, Brittni Donaldson of the Atlanta Hawks, and Sonia Raman of the Memphis Grizzlies. Her hiring is not just a milestone for the Lakers but also a significant moment for women in sports.
Extensive Experience and Accomplishments
Before joining the Lakers, Harding coached the Stockton Kings, the G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings, where she was named G League Coach of the Year last season. Under her leadership, the team clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and advanced to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. This accomplishment highlighted her coaching acumen and ability to maximize her players' potential.
Harding's relationship with the Kings' organization dates back to 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach. Her coaching journey began even earlier, transitioning from her playing career to a scouting position with the Philadelphia 76ers, where she became the first Black woman to hold a full-time scouting role in the NBA. She also served as a player development coach with the 76ers, further solidifying her credentials in player development and team strategy.
A Storied Playing Career
Before her coaching career, Harding had a celebrated playing career. At Duke University, she played alongside JJ Redick from 2002 to 2006, forming a bond that would later be rekindled when both found themselves in Philadelphia—Redick as a player and Harding as a coach. In 2007, she was named Naismith Player of the Year and was subsequently the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft. Harding's nine-season tenure in the WNBA saw her play for six different teams, demonstrating her versatility and skill across the league.
Internationally, Harding also made a name for herself, most notably playing in Turkey. After retiring from professional play in 2017, she smoothly transitioned into coaching and development, bringing her extensive on-court experience into her new roles.
Beyond Domestic Basketball
Harding's coaching career extends beyond domestic leagues. She briefly served as the head coach of South Sudan's women's national team and is currently the head coach of Mexico's women's national team. Earlier this year, she was even a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a testament to her growing reputation in the basketball community. Although Charles Lee was ultimately selected for the Hornets' position, Harding's consideration for the role highlighted her capabilities and rising profile.
Joining a Seasoned Staff
JJ Redick is assembling a coaching staff filled with seasoned veterans and familiar faces as he looks to steer the Lakers toward success. Alongside Harding, he has brought in names like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean—each bringing their unique experiences and strengths to the table. This blend of knowledge and expertise aims to address the Lakers' early playoff exit last season, setting the stage for a renewed push toward championship contention.
Harding's addition to the Lakers coaching staff not only breaks new ground but also brings a blend of fresh perspective and proven tactical wisdom. Her journey from being a top player to a respected coach continues to inspire many, and her impact on the Lakers could potentially be profound. As the team prepares for a new season, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how Harding and the seasoned coaching staff can reshape the team's fortunes.