Lakers Make Historic Hire: Lindsey Harding Joins Coaching Staff
In a groundbreaking move, the Los Angeles Lakers have hired Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach under JJ Redick's leadership. Harding's appointment is particularly noteworthy as she becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers, marking a significant milestone in the storied franchise's history.
Harding is not the only woman making strides in the NBA. She joins a growing list of female coaches in the league, including Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies). This hiring trend underscores the league's increasing commitment to diversity and inclusion within its coaching ranks.
Harding's coaching resume is impressive. She previously led the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings' G League affiliate, where she earned G League Coach of the Year honors last season. Under her guidance, the Stockton Kings secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and advanced to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Harding's success in the G League is a testament to her tactical acumen and leadership abilities.
Her coaching journey began in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. Harding also made history as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers, where she also served as a player development coach. These roles laid the foundation for her rapid ascent within the coaching ranks.
Harding's connection with JJ Redick extends back to their college days. Both were standout players at Duke University from 2002 to 2006. They later reconnected in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding served as a player development coach. This shared history undoubtedly played a role in Harding joining Redick's staff.
Before transitioning to coaching, Harding had an illustrious playing career. She was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Over nine seasons in the WNBA, Harding played for six different teams and also competed internationally, most notably in Turkey. She retired in 2017 and swiftly moved into coaching and development roles.
Harding has also made her mark on the international stage. 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. Earlier this year, she was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position eventually filled by Charles Lee.
The Lakers, who had an early playoff exit last season, seem determined to revamp their coaching staff with experienced and familiar faces. Alongside Harding, Redick has enlisted seasoned veterans such as Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean to form a robust coaching team aimed at guiding the Lakers back to championship contention.
Harding's appointment as an assistant coach for the Lakers is a landmark moment not just for the franchise, but for the NBA as a whole. Her extensive experience and proven track record of success are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Lakers' bench. As the league continues to embrace a more diverse and inclusive approach to coaching, Harding's hire signals a progressive step forward for women in sports.