In an unprecedented move for the storied Los Angeles Lakers, Lindsey Harding has been appointed as an assistant coach on JJ Redick's staff. Harding's hiring marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to coach for the Lakers. Her addition to the coaching roster continues the NBA's increasing inclusion of women in coaching roles, a significant development in professional basketball.
Harding joins the ranks of other trailblazing women in the NBA such as Jenny Boucek of the Indiana Pacers, the Atlanta Hawks’ Brittni Donaldson, and Sonia Raman of the Memphis Grizzlies. Harding brings with her a substantial resume, having previously helmed the Stockton Kings, the G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings. Her tenure with Stockton was marked by considerable success, earning her the G League Coach of the Year honor last season.
Under Harding's guidance, the Stockton Kings secured the top seed in the Western Conference and advanced to the semifinals of the G League playoffs. Her coaching prowess was evident, showcasing her ability to lead and develop young talent. This role followed her initial foray into coaching when she was hired by the Sacramento Kings as an assistant coach in 2019.
Prior to transitioning to coaching, Harding broke barriers as the first black woman to hold a full-time scouting position in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Her role in Philadelphia extended to player development coaching, during which she reconnected with JJ Redick, who was then a player for the 76ers. Their shared history stretches back to their collegiate days at Duke University, where both were standout players from 2002 to 2006. Harding's illustrious playing career includes being named the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007 and being the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft the same year.
Harding's professional playing career spanned nine seasons in the WNBA, where she played for six different teams and also competed internationally, most notably in Turkey. After hanging up her sneakers in 2017, she seamlessly transitioned into coaching and development roles, showcasing her deep understanding of the game from both a player and coach perspective.
In addition to her NBA duties, Harding has demonstrated her versatility and leadership on the international stage. She had a brief stint as head coach of South Sudan's women’s national team and currently serves as the head coach of Mexico's women’s national team.
Harding's name recently emerged as a candidate for the head coaching position with the Charlotte Hornets earlier this year. Although she was not selected, with Charles Lee getting the nod instead, her candidacy speaks volumes about her growing reputation in the coaching community.
The Los Angeles Lakers, looking to rebound from an early playoff exit last season, are building their coaching staff with experienced and familiar faces. JJ Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter turned coach, has recruited seasoned veterans like Nate McMillan, Scott Brooks, and Greg St. Jean to join his team.
Harding's addition brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to the Lakers’ bench. Her rich background in player development, combined with her firsthand experience as a top-tier player, positions her well to contribute significantly to the Lakers' coaching efforts. As the Lakers strive to return to championship contention, Harding's expertise and trailblazing spirit could prove invaluable in their quest for success.