The Los Angeles Lakers broke new ground on this day by naming Lindsey Harding the full-time head coach for their Summer League team, marking only the second time a woman has taken on that role in NBA history. This historic moment follows Becky Hammon’s trailblazing appoitnment in 2020 when she led the Spurs in a regular season game. Harding’s promotion comes as part of the Lakers’ revamped coaching structure under head coach JJ Redick, signaling a strong commitment to inclusion and talent recognition.
The offseason has represented a seismic moment for the California franchise. The purchase of the team by a new ownership group, the signing of DeAndre Ayton, the departure of players on the team, and, of course, the pivot from Lebron James being the head of the franchise to now concentrating on building a team around Luka Doncic. With all this, Lindsey Harding’s situation must be something to highlight and for the Lakers to be proud.
Lindsey Harding’s trajectory to NBA coaching
Harding made waves during her colleage years at Duke, where she played alongside Redick, before being drafted No.1 overall in the 2007 WNBA draft. After nine seasons in the WNBA, she joined the 76ers as a scout and player development coach, later moving to Sacramento’s organization. In June 2023, she was named head coach of the G League’s Stockton Kings, leading them to a No. 1 Western Conference seed and earning G League Coach of the Year honors. In July, 2024, she became the first woman ever hired as a full-tome assistant coach by the Lakers.
Her evolution from standout player to respected coach makes Harding uniquely qualified to lead a Summer League team and mentor young talent in Los Angeles.
Redick’s vision shared by Harding
Under JJ Redick’s leadership, the Lakers are emphasizing a comprehensive approach to player development. Redick outlined a “holistic” system that integrates mechanical skills, tactical awareness, film study, analytics, nutrition, strength, and mental conditioning. Harding’s extensive experience and proven track record make her instrumental in implementing this vision, particularly within Summer League, where developing high-potential players can have a major impact on the future of the roster.
Harding becoming only the second woman, and first with the Lakers, to serve as a full-time head coach in Summer League marks another step forward for gender equity in professional basketball. With her credentials accomplishments and groundbreaking stride, Harding inspires more women and opens doors across al levels of the sport. Her story underscores the transformative power of opportunity and excellence.
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