The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's staff. Harding's hiring marks a historic moment, making her the first woman to coach for the Lakers. This appointment not only represents a personal achievement for Harding but also adds her to the growing list of women actively coaching in the NBA, joining the ranks of Jenny Boucek (Pacers), Brittni Donaldson (Hawks), and Sonia Raman (Grizzlies).
Harding brings a wealth of experience to the Lakers. Previously, she was at the helm of the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate, where she made an indelible impact. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her accomplishments didn't go unnoticed, as she was named the G League Coach of the Year last season.
Her coaching journey began in 2019 when the Sacramento Kings hired her as an assistant coach. Before that, Harding broke barriers with the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA. She also contributed her expertise as a player development coach with the 76ers.
Interestingly, Harding and JJ Redick share a deep connection beyond their professional paths. Both played basketball at Duke University from 2002 to 2006, and their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers, and Harding served as a player development coach. This shared history and mutual respect undoubtedly played a role in Redick's decision to bring Harding on board.
Harding's illustrious basketball career includes playing nine seasons in the WNBA for six different teams after being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft. Her impact wasn't limited to the WNBA; she also played internationally, most notably in Turkey, before retiring in 2017 and transitioning to coaching and development roles.
Aside from her achievements in the NBA and G League, Harding's coaching resume extends to 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, Harding was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, though Charles Lee was ultimately chosen for the position.
The Lakers, who had an early playoff exit last season, are clearly looking to strengthen their coaching staff with seasoned veterans and familiar faces. With JJ Redick at the helm, the team has also added prominent names such as Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean to the coaching roster.
By integrating seasoned professionals like Harding and others, Redick is creating a diverse and experienced coaching staff that could play a crucial role in the team's future success. Harding's journey, from being a trailblazer in her playing career to breaking barriers in various coaching roles, serves as an inspiring narrative for the Lakers and the broader basketball community.
As Harding steps into her new role with the Lakers, her extensive experience, both as a player and a coach, promises to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to the team. Her historic appointment not only signifies progress for women in coaching roles but also adds substantial expertise to a team aimed at overcoming last season's disappointments and achieving greater heights.