In a groundbreaking move, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach, making her the first woman to join the Lakers' coaching staff. Harding joins JJ Redick's team, bringing a wealth of experience and a history of success to the storied franchise.
A Trailblazer and a Leader
Harding's journey to the Lakers is marked by numerous historic milestones. Notably, she was the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Harding also served as a player development coach for the 76ers, where she reconnected with Redick, who was playing for Philadelphia at the time.
Both Harding and Redick have roots at Duke University, where they played from 2002 to 2006. Harding's illustrious playing career includes being named Naismith Player of the Year and being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. She went on to play nine seasons in the WNBA for six different teams and also competed internationally, most notably in Turkey.
Coaching Credentials
After retiring from professional basketball in 2017, Harding transitioned seamlessly into coaching and development roles. Her coaching journey began with a stint as an assistant coach for the Sacramento Kings in 2019. She subsequently took on the role of head coach for the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings' G League affiliate.
Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings enjoyed a remarkable season, clinching the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and reaching the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her stellar performance earned her the G League Coach of the Year award last season.
Harding's coaching resume extends beyond the NBA. She briefly served as head coach of South Sudan's women's national team and is currently the head coach of Mexico's women's national team. Earlier this year, she was also a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position eventually filled by Charles Lee.
Building a Strong Coaching Staff
JJ Redick, who has recently assembled his coaching staff, is prioritizing experienced and familiar faces. Alongside Harding, Redick has brought on seasoned veterans like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean. This blend of experience and proven success is set to bolster the Lakers' coaching prowess as they aim to rebound from an early playoff exit last season.
Lindsey Harding's appointment marks a significant step forward in the NBA's ongoing efforts to diversify coaching staffs and include more women in prominent roles. Harding joins a select group of women actively coaching in the NBA, including Jenny Boucek of the Pacers, Brittni Donaldson of the Hawks, and Sonia Raman of the Grizzlies.
As the first woman to coach for the Lakers, Harding's presence on Redick's staff is not just a testament to her skills and experience, but also a beacon for future generations of women aspiring to reach the highest echelons of basketball coaching.
With an impressive track record both on and off the court, Lindsey Harding is poised to make a significant impact with the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing her expertise to one of the NBA's most iconic franchises.