Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick is navigating his first season on the sidelines, leading a team with championship aspirations. The former sharpshooter recently spoke with NBA insider Brandon “Scoop” Robinson about his influences and approach to coaching.
Under Redick’s leadership, the Lakers hold a 32-19 record, sitting fourth in the Western Conference. Despite being new to coaching, Redick has relied on the lessons he learned from the coaches who shaped his career.
“I’ve been very fortunate in my life to have a number of great coaches,” Redick said. “Starting with Delmar Irving with the Roanoke Jaguars. Chris Morris when I was in 8th grade, Billy Hicks my high school coach, Boo Williams my AAU coach in high school.”
One of Redick’s biggest influences was legendary Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski. “I always had a great amount of respect for the role of the job of coaching, and obviously I played for one of the greatest coaches in any sport, Coach K,” Redick explained. “He taught me how to operate at the highest level of intensity and professionalism, and how to be a consistent contributor to a team.”
After college, Redick spent 15 seasons in the NBA, learning from some of the league’s most respected coaches. Stan Van Gundy played a crucial role in his development with the Orlando Magic. “Stan was great for me,” Redick said. “He gave me the chance to expand my game beyond just being a shooter.”
He also credited Doc Rivers for shaping his leadership skills with the Clippers. “Doc was obviously one of the best,” Redick reflected. “He made me understand the value of being a team player and knowing how to perform under pressure.”
During his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, Redick appreciated Brett Brown’s coaching style. “Brett was wonderful as well,” Redick said. “He gave me the freedom to be myself while also pushing me to grow. Each of these guys taught me something different, and I carry their lessons with me every day.”
Now in his first season as a head coach, Redick is adjusting to the challenges of leading an NBA team. “Going into this, it’s nothing like it. You have to be yourself,” Redick said. “You also have to go in being super open-minded about this. It’s going to surprise me in every way except for the Palisades fires.”
With a talented roster led by LeBron James and now Luka Doncic, Redick is tasked with keeping the Lakers competitive in a tough Western Conference. His ability to translate his playing experience into coaching strategies will be key as the season progresses.
Despite the steep learning curve, Redick is embracing the challenge. “Coaching requires a different set of skills, including managing personalities, developing strategies, and understanding the intricacies of leadership,” he said.
Redick’s first season as an NBA coach is far from over, but his commitment to learning and adapting has already made an impact. With his deep basketball knowledge and the influence of some of the game’s greatest minds, he aims to lead the Lakers to success.
