Veteran coach Nate McMillan revealed he was nearly out of the NBA before a call from JJ Redick brought him to Los Angeles.
“I was semi-retired in North Carolina, working on my foundation and mentoring young boys,” McMillan said on The Sports Shop with Reese and K-Mac, via HoopsHype.
His son’s connection to Redick in New Orleans proved pivotal. “My son told me, ‘JJ just texted me—would you be interested in coaching?’” McMillan recalled.
McMillan immediately spoke with Redick, who outlined his vision for the Lakers’ staff. “He said he needed some experience, some gray beards on the bench,” McMillan said.
Redick also planned to add Scott Brooks, but wanted McMillan first. “When the Lakers come calling, you listen,” McMillan noted.
McMillan officially joined on August 5, 2024, as an assistant under Redick, marking his return after years leading teams in Seattle, Portland, Indiana, and Atlanta.
His previous head-coaching tenures include the SuperSonics (2000–05), Trail Blazers (2005–12), and Pacers (2016–20).
McMillan’s arrival added seasoned leadership to a Lakers staff tasked with maximizing LeBron James and Anthony Davis during the 2024–25 season.
