In a historic move for the Los Angeles Lakers, Lindsey Harding has been appointed as an assistant coach on JJ Redick's staff, breaking new ground as the first woman to coach for the Lakers. Harding's addition to the coaching staff is part of a broader trend in the NBA, where more women are taking on significant coaching roles. Alongside Harding, the league also features Jenny Boucek with the Pacers, Brittni Donaldson with the Hawks, and Sonia Raman with the Grizzlies.
Harding brings a wealth of experience to the Lakers' bench. Her coaching journey began after a successful playing career that included nine seasons in the WNBA and international stints, most notably in Turkey. In 2017, she transitioned into coaching and developmental roles, quickly making a name for herself in the NBA's developmental leagues. Her most recent achievement was being named the G League Coach of the Year last season while working with the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ G League affiliate. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings not only clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference but also reached the semifinals of the G League playoffs.
Before her success with the Stockton Kings, Harding had already broken barriers in the NBA. In 2019, she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. She also served as a player development coach with these same Kings and held a full-time scouting position with the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming the first black woman to do so. Harding's achievements as a scout were instrumental in laying the groundwork for her coaching career.
Harding's connection to Redick dates back to their college days at Duke University, where both were standout players from 2002 to 2006. Their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding was part of the developmental staff. Harding, who was named Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft, has always been known for her basketball intelligence and leadership qualities. These attributes have seamlessly transitioned into her coaching career.
In addition to her G League and NBA roles, Harding has also taken her talents 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, she was a candidate for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy, a position that ultimately went to Charles Lee.
As the Lakers aim to bounce back from an early playoff exit last season, Redick is constructing a staff filled with seasoned veterans and familiar faces, including Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean. Harding's appointment is a strategic addition aimed at leveraging her diverse coaching experiences and success at various levels of the game.
Harding's appointment as an assistant coach for the Lakers signifies more than just a notable hiring. It represents a step forward for the NBA in embracing and recognizing the skills and expertise that women bring to coaching roles. As more women like Harding break through barriers and excel at the highest levels, the landscape of coaching in the NBA continues to evolve, becoming more inclusive and diverse.
In an era where representation matters more than ever, Harding's role with the Lakers is a beacon of progress. Her journey from a celebrated player to an acclaimed coach continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of women in basketball. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see how this groundbreaking coaching staff, led by JJ Redick and bolstered by Harding's expertise, will perform in their quest for redemption and success.