JJ Redick was named the Lakers’ head coach following a 15-year career in the NBA and a period as an ESPN broadcaster. He was formally introduced in a Monday afternoon press conference where Lakers Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka joined him to answer questions.
Redick acknowledged his lack of NBA coaching experience, humorously mentioning his only coaching stint was with his son’s youth team. Despite this, he expressed a deep motivation to serve players, the Lakers organization, and their fans, emphasizing his commitment to competition, collaboration, and leadership.
Redick, who played for several NBA teams including the Clippers, transitioned to broadcasting after retiring from playing, becoming an ESPN analyst. Known for his insightful analysis and pioneering podcasting, Redick played college basketball at Duke under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski before being drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2006. He becomes the Lakers’ seventh permanent head coach since Phil Jackson’s retirement and inherits a team led by stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with expectations set on delivering championship success.
Magic Johnson expressed cautious optimism about Redick’s coaching tenure, highlighting Redick’s basketball IQ, competitive spirit, and toughness as potential assets for the Lakers. Pelinka praised Redick’s deep understanding of the modern game and his dedication to innovation and player development, noting his ability to connect with players through empathy and care.
