The Los Angeles Lakers have made a historic move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach under JJ Redick's staff. This appointment not only enriches the Lakers' coaching roster but also marks a significant milestone as Harding becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers.
Harding's coaching journey is impressive. Before joining the Lakers, she coached the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate. Her impact was swiftly felt, as she led the team to clinch the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and reach the semifinals of the G League playoffs. For her stellar efforts, she was named G League Coach of the Year last season.
The former Duke University star shares a notable connection with JJ Redick. Both played at Duke from 2002 to 2006, and their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding was serving as a player development coach. Harding's rich history with the sport does not end there; she was the first black woman to secure a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers and later transitioned into an assistant coaching role with the Sacramento Kings in 2019.
Expanding her coaching horizons, Harding also briefly served as the head coach of South Sudan's women's national team and is currently at the helm of Mexico's women's national team. Earlier this year, Harding was considered for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position ultimately filled by Charles Lee.
Harding's player career is just as illustrious. Named the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007, she was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Harding enjoyed a nine-season career in the WNBA, playing for six different teams, and also competed internationally, most notably in Turkey.
Her appointment to the Lakers is part of Redick's strategy to build a robust and familiar coaching staff. The Lakers' head coach is assembling a team of seasoned veterans and recognized figures, including Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, aiming to turn around the team's fortunes following an early playoff exit last season.
The Lakers join a small but growing group of NBA teams incorporating female coaches in their ranks. Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies) are also making strides as women actively coaching in the NBA. This progressive shift reflects a broader movement towards greater diversity and inclusion within the league.
Incorporating Harding's extensive experience and basketball acumen into the Lakers' coaching staff sets a promising tone for the upcoming seasons. Her journey, marked by pioneering achievements and consistent success, offers a source of inspiration and demonstrates the expanding opportunities for women in professional sports.
As the Lakers look to rebuild and strengthen their squad, Harding’s expertise will be invaluable in guiding and developing talent. Her strategic insights and proven track record in coaching and development roles position her as a key asset in the journey ahead for the Lakers.