Lindsey Harding Joins Lakers as Historic Hire
In a move that has been creating waves in the basketball community, the Los Angeles Lakers have announced the hiring of Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach on JJ Redick's staff. Harding's appointment marks a historic moment for the Lakers as she becomes the first woman to coach in the franchise's storied history.
Harding's impressive resume speaks volumes about her coaching and basketball prowess. Prior to joining the Lakers, she helmed the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate. Under her leadership last season, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs, earning Harding the coveted G League Coach of the Year award.
Her coaching journey began in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. Harding's groundbreaking role as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers further underscores her trailblazing career. She also contributed as a player development coach with the 76ers, where she reconnected with Redick during his playing stint in Philadelphia.
A Storied Playing Career
Harding's transition into coaching came after an illustrious playing career. As the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and the No. 1 overall pick in that year's WNBA Draft, she played nine seasons in the WNBA, representing six different teams. Her basketball journey also saw her playing internationally, most notably in Turkey.
After retiring from playing in 2017, Harding quickly pivoted to coaching and development roles. She briefly led South Sudan's women's national team and is currently the head coach of Mexico's women's national team. Earlier this year, Harding was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position ultimately filled by Charles Lee.
Women Making Strides in NBA Coaching Roles
Harding joins an elite group of women actively coaching in the NBA, alongside Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies). Her hiring by the Lakers not only highlights her individual achievements but also marks a significant step forward for women in the coaching ranks of the NBA.
The Lakers, who experienced an early playoff exit last season, are building a robust coaching staff under Redick's leadership. In addition to Harding, seasoned veterans like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean have also been brought on board to help steer the team to success in the upcoming season.
A Duke Connection
Harding's professional and personal connection with Redick dates back to their college days at Duke University, where they both played from 2002 to 2006. This established rapport can only bode well for their collaboration in Los Angeles. Their reunion in Philadelphia, where Harding served as a player development coach and Redick played for the 76ers, further solidified their professional relationship.
As Harding steps into her new role with the Lakers, the basketball world will be keenly watching her continued impact and contributions to the sport. Her journey from a celebrated player to a respected coach serves as an inspiring narrative of breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks in professional basketball.
With this historic hire, the Lakers not only gain a highly qualified coach but also send a powerful message about the evolving landscape of opportunities for women in sports. Harding's new role promises to be a pivotal addition to a formidable coaching lineup, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead for Lakers fans.