Lakers Break New Ground with Lindsey Harding Hire
In a landmark move, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach on JJ Redick's staff. This appointment makes Harding the first woman to hold a coaching position within the Lakers organization, marking a significant step forward in the NBA's inclusion efforts.
Harding's arrival in Los Angeles follows an impressive coaching stint with the Stockton Kings, the G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference last season and reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs. This remarkable performance earned Harding the title of G League Coach of the Year, underlining her coaching prowess and readiness for the NBA stage.
JJ Redick and Lindsey Harding share a history that dates back to their college days at Duke University, where both players honed their skills from 2002 to 2006. Their paths crossed again in Philadelphia, with Redick playing for the 76ers and Harding serving as a player development coach. This familiarity undoubtedly played a role in Redick’s decision to bring Harding into his coaching circle.
Harding's coaching journey has been both historic and trailblazing. In 2019, she made headlines as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Her role there included serving as a player development coach, a testament to her deep understanding of the game and ability to mentor and develop talent.
Before transitioning into coaching, Harding enjoyed a distinguished playing career. She was named the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Over nine seasons, she played for six different WNBA teams and further honed her skills internationally, most notably in Turkey. Harding retired from playing in 2017 and quickly transitioned to coaching and development roles.
Harding's coaching resume also boasts international experience. 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 in the year, Harding was a candidate for the head coaching vacancy with the Charlotte Hornets, although the position ultimately went to Charles Lee.
In addition to Harding, several other women are making their mark in the NBA coaching ranks, including Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies). Harding's success story adds an inspiring chapter to the ongoing narrative of female representation in professional basketball coaching.
JJ Redick, in assembling his coaching staff, has sought seasoned veterans and familiar faces to bolster the Lakers’ fortunes. His selections include the likes of Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, each bringing a wealth of experience and strategic acumen to the team.
The Lakers faced an early playoff exit last season, prompting a reevaluation of their coaching strategies. With the addition of Harding and the seasoned expertise on Redick’s staff, the team aims to turn the page and strive for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
As the NBA continues to embrace diversity and inclusion, Harding's appointment stands as a powerful testament to the evolving landscape of professional basketball. Her success in various coaching roles highlights the wealth of talent and leadership that women bring to the sport, paving the way for future generations.
The basketball community will undoubtedly watch with keen interest as Harding embarks on this historic chapter with the Lakers, bringing her unique blend of experience, insight, and innovation to one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.