Lindsey Harding, the coach of the G League’s Stockton Kings, is set to join the Los Angeles Lakers’ coaching staff as an assistant under head coach JJ Redick, according to league sources. This move was first reported by ESPN, confirming that Harding will be making the transition from the G League to the NBA.
Another addition expected to join Redick’s staff is Bob Beyer, who currently serves as an assistant coach for the Charlotte Hornets. Beyer has been seen attending multiple Lakers summer league games, sitting alongside the coaching staff that includes Redick, Nate McMillan, and Scott Brooks.
Lindsey Harding, at the age of 40, brings a wealth of experience to her new role with the Lakers. She was the No. 1 pick in the 2007 WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury and went on to have a successful career in the league. In fact, she became the only woman to have been a head coach in either the NBA or G League when she led Sacramento’s G League team in their opener in November 2023.
Prior to her coaching career, Harding was a standout player at Duke University, where her No. 10 jersey was retired by the program. She was named the Naismith Player of the Year in 2007. After her playing career, she worked as a scout and player development coach for the Philadelphia 76ers before joining the Sacramento Kings as an assistant coach for four seasons. From there, she took on the role of head coach for the Stockton Kings.
Harding’s success as a coach was recognized in April when she became the first woman to be named the NBA G League Coach of the Year. Under her leadership, the Stockton Kings achieved an impressive 24-10 regular-season record.
It is worth noting that Harding’s coaching experience extends beyond the NBA and G League. Since 2022, she has also been coaching the Mexican women’s national team, and she previously served in the same role for South Sudan’s women’s team.
The addition of Lindsey Harding to the Lakers coaching staff is a significant move towards promoting diversity and inclusion in the NBA. As the league continues to evolve, it is crucial to have talented coaches like Harding who can bring a fresh perspective and contribute to the team’s success. With her experience as a player, scout, and coach, Harding will undoubtedly make valuable contributions to the Lakers organization.
In conclusion, the news of Lindsey Harding joining the Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff is an exciting development for both her and the team. Her experience and accolades make her a valuable asset, and her addition to the staff will undoubtedly strengthen the team’s coaching capabilities. As the NBA continues to prioritize diversity and inclusion, hiring talented coaches like Harding is a step in the right direction.