JJ Redick steps into the role of head coach for the Lakers after a distinguished 15-season NBA career and a notable stint as an ESPN broadcaster. The Lakers officially introduced Redick at a lively press conference where he and Lakers VP Rob Pelinka fielded questions. Despite his lack of NBA coaching experience, Redick humorously noted his previous coaching experience was limited to his son’s youth team. Nevertheless, he expressed a strong commitment to serving players, the Lakers organization, and their fanbase, driven by his passion for competition, collaboration, and leadership.

Redick, known for his sharp basketball acumen and innovative insights, made a significant mark both as a player, spanning multiple NBA teams including the Clippers, and later as an ESPN analyst and podcast host. His journey began at Duke University under the mentorship of Coach Mike Krzyzewski, where he garnered accolades before being drafted by the Orlando Magic in 2006. Taking over as the Lakers’ seventh permanent head coach since Phil Jackson’s era, Redick inherits a roster headlined by stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with expectations set firmly on delivering championship-caliber results.

Hall of Famer Magic Johnson voiced tempered optimism about Redick’s transition to coaching, highlighting his high basketball IQ, competitive drive, and resilience as potential assets for the Lakers. Pelinka praised Redick’s profound understanding of the evolving NBA landscape, his commitment to player development, and his ability to forge connections with players through empathy and genuine care, marking an exciting new chapter for Lakers basketball under Redick’s leadership.