The Los Angeles Lakers have made a groundbreaking move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach on JJ Redick's staff. Harding's appointment is notable for several reasons, not least of which is that she becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers. This milestone in Lakers history is a significant step forward in the NBA's ongoing effort to diversify its coaching ranks.
Harding brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She previously coached the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, where she made a considerable impact. Last season, Harding was named G League Coach of the Year, a testament to her exceptional leadership and coaching acumen. Under her guidance, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and advanced to the semifinals of the G League playoffs.
Her credentials extend beyond her recent successes in the G League. In 2019, Harding was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings, further solidifying her reputation in the professional basketball community. Harding has also made history as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers, where she also served as a player development coach. This diverse array of roles has equipped Harding with a comprehensive understanding of the game from multiple vantage points.
Harding's connection with JJ Redick dates back to their college days. Both played at Duke University from 2002 to 2006, a period during which Harding demonstrated her prowess on the court by earning the title of Naismith Player of the Year in 2007. She was also the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft, launching a professional career that spanned nine seasons in the WNBA with six different teams. Harding also played internationally, most notably in Turkey, before retiring in 2017 and transitioning to coaching and development roles.
In addition to her NBA and G League experience, Harding has demonstrated her coaching capabilities on the international stage. She has 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 a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position ultimately filled by Charles Lee.
JJ Redick, now building his coaching staff with a blend of seasoned veterans and familiar faces, has made strategic choices to strengthen the Lakers' leadership. Alongside Harding, Redick has brought in Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, each of whom brings their unique expertise and experience to the table.
The Lakers are looking to rebound from an early playoff exit last season, and the appointment of a seasoned professional like Harding is a step in the right direction. Her extensive background, coupled with her historic trailblazing in the league, not only enriches the coaching staff but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring female coaches everywhere.
Harding's journey from an outstanding collegiate player to a respected coach in professional basketball is a testament to her resilience, skill, and dedication. In an industry still grappling with issues of diversity and inclusion, her achievements underscore the progress being made and the potential for further breakthroughs in the future.
As Harding embarks on this new chapter with the Lakers, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on her to see how her leadership and coaching philosophy translate to success on one of the NBA's most storied franchises. Her unique blend of professional experience, historical achievements, and unwavering commitment to the sport positions her as a pivotal figure in the ongoing evolution of basketball coaching.