Lindsey Harding Makes History as Lakers' First Female Coach
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a groundbreaking move by hiring Lindsey Harding as an assistant coach for JJ Redick's new staff. Harding's appointment not only marks a significant milestone for the Lakers but also adds another chapter to her impressive career in basketball coaching and development.
Harding becomes the first woman ever to coach for the Lakers, joining a small but growing group of women actively coaching in the NBA, which includes Jenny Boucek of the Pacers, Brittni Donaldson of the Hawks, and Sonia Raman of the Grizzlies. This historic hire highlights the increasing opportunities for women in NBA coaching roles.
A Distinguished Coaching Background
Before joining the Lakers, Lindsey Harding served as the head coach for the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings' G League affiliate. Under her leadership, the team clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and made it to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her impressive work with the Stockton Kings earned her the title of G League Coach of the Year last season.
Harding's journey in coaching began in 2019 when she was hired as an assistant coach by the Sacramento Kings. Prior to that, she made history with the Philadelphia 76ers as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA, later serving as a player development coach for the team.
A Storied Playing Career
Long before embarking on her coaching career, Harding had already made a name for herself on the court. She played at Duke University from 2002 to 2006, where she shared the court with JJ Redick. In 2007, Harding was named Naismith Player of the Year and was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft. She went on to play nine seasons in the WNBA for six different teams, and she also enjoyed a successful international career, particularly in Turkey.
After retiring from professional play in 2017, Harding transitioned smoothly into coaching and development roles. Notably, 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.
Reconnecting with Redick
Harding's relationship with JJ Redick extends back to their college days at Duke University. Their paths crossed again in Philadelphia when Redick played for the 76ers and Harding was working as a player development coach. This longstanding connection likely played a part in Redick's decision to include Harding in his inaugural coaching staff with the Lakers.
Redick, who is building his coaching staff with seasoned veterans and familiar faces, looks to bring a fresh approach to the Lakers after their early playoff exit last season. Alongside Harding, his staff will feature noted names like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean, aiming to create a robust and innovative coaching team.
A Competitive Landscape
Harding's recent consideration for the Charlotte Hornets' head coaching vacancy underscores her growing reputation in the coaching community. Although Charles Lee was ultimately chosen for the position, Harding’s candidacy reflects her rising status and recognition in the NBA coaching ranks.
As Harding steps into her new role with the Lakers, she not only brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success but also paves the way for more women to take on leadership roles in professional sports. Her story is one of resilience, skill, and breaking barriers—traits that will undoubtedly benefit the Lakers as they strive for future success.
The Lakers' decision to hire Lindsey Harding exemplifies a commitment to diversity and excellence, setting a precedent that could inspire other franchises to follow suit. With such a distinguished background and a promising future, Harding's impact on the team and the league at large is poised to resonate for years to come.