Lindsey Harding Joins Lakers’ Coaching Staff, Making History
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a bold and progressive move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's newly formed staff. This appointment not only signifies a forward-thinking approach by the storied franchise but also marks a historic milestone, as Harding becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers.
Harding’s appointment places her among a select group of women paving the way in the NBA. She joins the ranks of Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies) as one of the women actively coaching in the league.
A Stellar Coaching Pedigree
Before joining the Lakers, Harding had an impressive run with the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate. Her excellence was recognized league-wide when 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 reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs.
Harding’s experience in the NBA is extensive as well. In 2019, she was hired as an assistant coach by the Kings and had been a critical part of their coaching regime ever since. Prior to that, she broke barriers with the Philadelphia 76ers, first as a scout – becoming the first black woman to hold that position full-time in the NBA – and later as a player development coach.
A Rekindled Connection
The partnership between JJ Redick and Lindsey Harding is built on years of mutual respect and shared experiences. Both were standout players at Duke University from 2002 to 2006. They reconnected a decade later in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding worked within the organization as a player development coach.
Redick’s decision to bring Harding on board demonstrates trust in her abilities and a shared vision for the future of the Lakers. His appointment as head coach itself was unexpected by many, considering his lack of prior coaching experience. Nevertheless, Redick has begun to build his staff with both seasoned veterans and familiar faces, including long-time NBA head coaches Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks, as well as Greg St. Jean, formerly an assistant under Frank Vogel.
From Player to Trailblazer
Before transitioning into coaching, Harding had a distinguished career as a player. She was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Her professional playing career spanned nine seasons in the WNBA, where she played for six different teams. Harding also showcased her talents internationally, most notably in Turkey.
Upon her retirement in 2017, Harding wasted no time in shifting her focus to coaching and development roles. Her journey has been marked by a series of firsts and breakthroughs, with her hiring by the Sixers as a scout being a significant milestone. Harding’s ability to break through glass ceilings continued when she became a player development coach and later ascended to coaching roles with the Kings.
International Impact
Outside of her work in the NBA and the G League, 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. Harding’s global experience adds a unique dimension to her coaching resume, demonstrating a vast understanding of the game and leadership on an international level.
Earlier this year, Harding was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy. Although the position eventually went to Charles Lee, Harding’s consideration for the role underscores her growing reputation and the respect she commands in the basketball community.
As the Lakers look to bounce back from a disappointing early playoff exit last season, the infusion of fresh perspectives and experienced coaches like Harding could be the catalyst they need. With JJ Redick at the helm and Lindsey Harding breaking new ground, the Lakers are not just aiming for success on the court but are also setting an example for diversity and inclusion in sports leadership.