Lakers Make History with Addition of Lindsey Harding to Coaching Staff
The Los Angeles Lakers have taken a historic step by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's staff. This move makes Harding the first woman to coach for the Lakers, marking a significant milestone in the franchise's storied legacy.
Harding is not a newcomer to breaking barriers. She was the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Her role expanded in Philadelphia as she transitioned into a player development coach, where she crossed paths with JJ Redick, who was then a player for the 76ers. Their connection dates back to their college days, as both were standout athletes at Duke University from 2002 to 2006.
Harding’s coaching journey has been nothing short of remarkable. She previously led the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, to tremendous success. Under her leadership, the team clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her outstanding work earned her the G League Coach of the Year award last season.
Her coaching career began with the Sacramento Kings in 2019, where she joined as an assistant coach. This followed an illustrious playing career in which she was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Harding went on to play nine seasons in the WNBA for six different teams and had a notable international career in Turkey.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Harding has also made significant contributions to international basketball. After retiring as a player in 2017, 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. Her diverse experience in various coaching and development roles highlights her profound impact on the sport.
Earlier this year, Harding was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position ultimately filled by Charles Lee. Despite not securing this role, her reputation as a talented coach continues to grow, and her new position with the Lakers further emphasizes her rising prominence in the NBA coaching ranks.
Harding joins a distinguished list of women coaching in the NBA, including Jenny Boucek of the Pacers, Brittni Donaldson of the Hawks, and Sonia Raman of the Grizzlies. These trailblazers are redefining the landscape of professional basketball, showcasing exceptional knowledge and leadership on the sidelines.
The Lakers' decision to bring Harding on board is part of JJ Redick's broader strategy to assemble a seasoned and cohesive coaching staff. This group includes respected names like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean. Redick’s approach reflects a mix of seasoned veterans and familiar faces aimed at revitalizing the Lakers, who experienced an early playoff exit last season.
Harding’s unique blend of experience as both a player and a coach is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Lakers. Her proven track record in player development and her ability to foster winning cultures are assets that Redick and the Lakers organization will undoubtedly lean on as they strive to return to championship contention.
The NBA continues to champion diversity and inclusion, with Harding’s appointment serving as a powerful reminder of the evolving dynamics within professional sports. Her presence on the Lakers' bench not only adds to the team's coaching acumen but also inspires aspiring female coaches to pursue their dreams within the highest echelons of basketball.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how this newly assembled coaching staff, featuring Harding’s pioneering influence, will steer the team towards success. The path ahead promises exciting developments and the possibility of new historical milestones under Harding's guidance.