In a historic move, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's coaching staff. Harding's appointment marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first woman to serve as a coach in the storied history of the Lakers franchise.
Harding joins the ranks of other trailblazing women currently coaching in the NBA, including Jenny Boucek with the Indiana Pacers, Brittni Donaldson with the Atlanta Hawks, and Sonia Raman with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Before joining the Lakers, Harding made a notable impact as the head coach of the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and made a strong run to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her impressive performance earned her the G League Coach of the Year award last season.
Harding's coaching journey began in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. She already had an impressive résumé, notably becoming the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. During her tenure with the 76ers, Harding also served as a player development coach, contributing to the growth and performance of the team's athletes.
Prior to her coaching career, Harding had an illustrious playing career. She was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007, the same year she was the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft. Harding played nine seasons in the WNBA, representing six different teams and further honing her basketball expertise on an international level, particularly in Turkey. After retiring in 2017, Harding seamlessly transitioned into coaching and development roles, also briefly serving as the head coach for South Sudan's women’s national team. She currently holds the position of head coach for Mexico’s women’s national team.
Harding’s connection to JJ Redick runs deep. Both were standout players at Duke University from 2002 to 2006, a bond that was reignited in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding was part of the coaching staff. Redick’s familiarity with Harding's capabilities undoubtedly played a role in her addition to his coaching team.
Redick is assembling a coaching staff that features seasoned veterans and familiar faces, including Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean. The Lakers, aiming to rebound from an early playoff exit last season, are banking on this blend of experience and fresh perspectives to drive them back to championship contention.
In recent months, Harding was also a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position ultimately filled by Charles Lee. The recognition of her potential for head coaching roles reflects her growing reputation and the respect she commands in the basketball community.
Lindsey Harding's journey—from her accolades as a player to her groundbreaking roles in coaching—represents a significant evolution in the NBA’s coaching landscape. Her appointment with the Lakers not only breaks barriers but also brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to a franchise eager for success.
As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Harding and Redick's shared history and mutual respect translate to success on the court. The Lakers' pursuit of championship glory is being led by a coaching staff that embodies diversity, innovation, and a deep understanding of the game.