Lakers Make Historic Move by Hiring Lindsey Harding as Assistant Coach
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a landmark decision by adding Lindsey Harding to their coaching staff under head coach JJ Redick. Harding's arrival not only marks the first time a woman will coach for the Lakers, but also continues the growing legacy of female coaches making impactful contributions to the NBA.
Harding joins an esteemed group of women actively coaching in the NBA, such as Jenny Boucek with the Indiana Pacers, Brittni Donaldson with the Atlanta Hawks, and Sonia Raman with the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing the league's commitment to diversity and inclusion within its coaching ranks.
Prior to joining the Lakers, Harding was at the helm of the Stockton Kings, the G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings. Her tenure with the Stockton Kings was nothing short of remarkable. Harding guided the team to a first-place finish in the Western Conference and led them to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her exceptional leadership and coaching acumen were recognized when she was named G League Coach of the Year last season.
Harding's coaching journey began in 2019 when she was appointed as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. Before that, she broke barriers as the first black woman to secure a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Additionally, she served as a player development coach with the 76ers, where she reconnected with Redick during his playing stint with the team.
Both Harding and Redick have a shared history that dates back to their college days at Duke University, where they played from 2002 to 2006. This longstanding connection undoubtedly adds a unique dynamic to the Lakers' coaching staff. Their combined experience and mutual respect are expected to foster a strong collaborative environment.
Harding's illustrious playing career further underscores her extensive basketball pedigree. In 2007, she earned the prestigious Naismith Player of the Year award and was subsequently selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft. Over the course of nine seasons, Harding played for six different WNBA teams, further honing her skills and understanding of the game. Her international playing career includes notable stints in Turkey, adding a global dimension to her basketball experience.
Transitioning seamlessly from player to coach upon her retirement in 2017, Harding took on various developmental roles, including a brief tenure as head coach of South Sudan's women's national team. She currently serves as the head coach of Mexico's women's national team, further demonstrating her versatility and leadership abilities on the international stage.
Earlier this year, Harding was a strong candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, though Charles Lee ultimately secured the position. Despite this, Harding's reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable coach has only grown, making her addition to the Lakers' staff highly anticipated.
Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter turned coach, is assembling a diverse and experienced team as he seeks to guide the Lakers past their early playoff exit last season. Alongside seasoned veterans such as Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, Harding's appointment brings both a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the Lakers' bench.
As the NBA continues to evolve, the integration of talented female coaches like Lindsey Harding is a testament to the league's progressive approach. Her historic hiring by the Lakers not only marks a significant milestone for the franchise but also sets a powerful precedent for the future of coaching in the NBA.