The Los Angeles Lakers have made a historic move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's staff. Harding's appointment not only adds significant expertise to the Lakers' coaching team but also marks a milestone, as she becomes the first woman to coach for the legendary franchise.
Harding brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to her new role. Previously, she served as the head coach of the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, where she excelled last season by leading the team to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and a semifinal appearance in the G League playoffs. Her exceptional leadership was recognized, earning her the G League Coach of the Year award.
A Trailblazer in the NBA
Lindsey Harding's pioneering journey in the NBA began in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. She had already broken barriers as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers, a role she transitioned into after serving as a player development coach with the same team.
Harding's connection with JJ Redick goes back to their collegiate days at Duke University, where they both played from 2002 to 2006. Their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers while Harding was on the coaching staff. This reunion at the Lakers promises to bring a dynamic synergy to Redick's coaching staff, which is being constructed with seasoned veterans and familiar faces, including Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean.
From Player to Coach
Harding's basketball acumen is backed by an illustrious playing career. She was the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Over nine seasons in the WNBA, she played for six different teams and also had significant international stints, most notably in Turkey. After retiring in 2017, she seamlessly transitioned to coaching and development roles, quickly making a name for herself in the NBA and beyond.
Expanding Horizons
Outside of her NBA responsibilities, Harding has also been active on the international scene. She 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. Her versatility and ability to adapt to different basketball cultures have only added to her already impressive credentials.
The Road Ahead for the Lakers
Harding joins the Lakers at a time when they are looking to bounce back from an early playoff exit last season. With JJ Redick building his coaching team around experienced and trusted individuals, the Lakers aim to make a stronger impact in the upcoming season. Harding's inclusion is not just a nod to her distinguished career but also a strategic move by the Lakers to bring fresh perspectives and proven leadership into their fold.
While Lindsey Harding's hiring speaks volumes about her capabilities and accomplishments, it also reflects a broader movement within the NBA. The league is witnessing an increasing presence of women in coaching roles, with Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies) also actively contributing to various teams. Harding's success story could inspire more franchises to embrace gender diversity in their coaching ranks.
In a sport that is continuously evolving, Lindsey Harding stands out as a trailblazer who has shattered ceilings and set new benchmarks. Her journey from an accomplished player to a trailblazing coach, now etched in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers, exemplifies determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.