The Los Angeles Lakers have made a groundbreaking move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's staff, marking the first time a woman has held a coaching position with the storied franchise. Harding's appointment makes her one of several women actively coaching in the NBA, joining Jenny Boucek of the Indiana Pacers, Brittni Donaldson of the Atlanta Hawks, and Sonia Raman of the Memphis Grizzlies.
Harding's Trailblazing Journey
Lindsey Harding's impressive coaching career began after a distinguished playing career. She was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft and played nine seasons in the league, representing six different teams. Harding's talent also took her international, most notably to Turkey, before transitioning to coaching and developmental roles upon her retirement in 2017.
Harding first stepped into the coaching arena with the Sacramento Kings, where she was hired as an assistant coach in 2019. Prior to this role, she had broken barriers as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Her tenure with the 76ers also saw her serve as a player development coach, a role in which she reconnected with JJ Redick, a former Duke University teammate and then-76ers player.
Success with the Stockton Kings
Harding's coaching acumen shone brightly with the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings' G League affiliate, where she was named G League Coach of the Year last season. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and made a formidable run to the semifinals of the G League playoffs.
Broadening Horizons
In addition to her accomplishments in the G League, Harding has also made waves 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, her rising profile saw her being considered for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, although Charles Lee was ultimately chosen for the position.
Building a Seasoned Staff
JJ Redick, who himself played alongside Harding at Duke University from 2002 to 2006, is building his coaching staff with seasoned veterans and trusted confidants. In addition to Harding, Redick has enlisted the services of Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, aiming to fortify a Lakers team that experienced an early playoff exit last season.
The Lakers' decision to bring Harding into the fold not only speaks to her capabilities and experience but also heralds a significant step forward in the inclusion and recognition of women in the highest echelons of professional basketball coaching. Harding's extensive resume, marked by trailblazing moments and significant achievements, makes her a valuable asset to Redick's coaching team. As the Lakers prepare for the upcoming season, they do so with the expertise and strategic acumen Harding brings to the table, poised to make an impact in her new role.