On Monday, the Los Angeles Lakers introduced JJ Redick, a 15-year NBA veteran who retired in 2021 and has since made a name for himself as an ESPN analyst, as their new head coach. Redick, 40, recently called the 2024 NBA Finals after his promotion to ESPN’s lead broadcast team but said the opportunity to coach the Lakers was too good to turn down.
Known for his sharpshooting skills, Redick ranks 19th in career 3-pointers made in NBA history. Although he lacks NBA coaching experience, the former two-time First-Team All-American at Duke is confident in his abilities to lead the team.
“I have zero coaching experience in the NBA, but I would argue that I’m very experienced,” Redick said. “I got to play for Coach K for four years, spent 15 years as a player …”
Redick’s transition from media to coaching has been in the works for some time. Despite his success as an analyst, he remained interested in a potential coaching career. After interviewing with the Toronto Raptors last year, Redick began preparing for a move to the sidelines.
“I really don’t give a f–k.”
JJ Redick on misconceptions he’s looking forward to eliminating as HC pic.twitter.com/QnxC4oi1Wn
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 24, 2024
Taking on the challenge of coaching the 17-time NBA champion Lakers, Redick is excited about his new role and feels ready for the job. “It’s a dream come true to join such a storied franchise and work with such talented players,” Redick said. “I can’t wait to get started and help lead this team to new heights.”
The Lakers are hopeful that Redick’s experience as a player and his analytical mind will bring fresh insights and strategies to the team. As they look to reclaim their championship status, all eyes will be on Redick as he takes the floor for his NBA coaching debut.
Redick added, “Sitting in this seat, I know what the expectations are … It’s my job, it’s our staff’s job, it’s Rob’s job, to deliver a championship caliber team. That’s what I signed up for.”
The post SOURCE SPORTS: Lakers Introduce JJ Redick as New Head Coach first appeared on The Source.
The post SOURCE SPORTS: Lakers Introduce JJ Redick as New Head Coach appeared first on The Source.