The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant addition to JJ Redick’s coaching staff by hiring Lindsey Harding as their first female assistant coach. This move has not been officially announced by the Lakers yet, but reports confirm Harding’s appointment along with other assistant coaches Nate McMillan and Scott Brooks, both former NBA head coaches.
At 40 years old, Harding has already made history by being named the G League’s coach of the year last season with the Stockton Kings, making her the first woman to receive this award. She has a strong background in basketball, having been the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA draft and later transitioning into coaching and scouting roles with the Sacramento Kings and Philadelphia 76ers.
Harding’s relationship with Redick goes back to their college days at Duke University, where they both excelled as basketball players. Her coaching experience and expertise will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the Lakers’ coaching staff. Additionally, Harding’s success with the Stockton Kings, leading them to a 24-10 record and a spot in the G League’s conference finals, demonstrates her ability to make a positive impact on a team.
As the NBA continues to diversify its coaching ranks, Harding’s hiring is a significant step forward for women in the basketball world. Her appointment not only highlights her own accomplishments but also serves as an inspiration for other women aspiring to pursue coaching careers in professional basketball.
The Lakers’ decision to bring Harding on board reflects their commitment to building a strong and diverse coaching staff to support their players. With her wealth of experience and proven track record, Harding is poised to make meaningful contributions to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
In a league where coaching positions have traditionally been dominated by men, Harding’s appointment is a groundbreaking moment that signals a positive shift towards greater gender equality in basketball. As she takes on this new role with the Lakers, Harding is sure to set a new standard for female coaches in the NBA and pave the way for more opportunities for women in the sport.
Overall, Lindsey Harding’s hiring as the first female assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers is a significant milestone for both her career and the future of women in coaching positions across the NBA. Her expertise, dedication, and trailblazing spirit will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the Lakers and the basketball community as a whole.
