JJ Redick Takes the Helm: Lakers Name Rookie Head Coach in Bold Move
Los Angeles is buzzing! 🌟 The iconic Los Angeles Lakers have made a groundbreaking decision to appoint former NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick as their new head coach on a four-year contract, according to ESPN reports on Thursday. 🚀
In a move that's turning heads across the basketball world, the Lakers offered Redick—a legend on the court but a rookie in coaching—a whopping $8 million per year, as reported by The Athletic. 💰 Not too shabby for someone who hung up his jersey just two years ago!
Since retiring in 2021, Redick has been dazzling us not on the court, but on our screens as an on-air sports analyst for ESPN. 🎙️ But now, he's swapping the commentator's chair for the coach's clipboard.
Sources say Redick met with Lakers' vice president and general manager Rob Pelinka and the team's owner Jeanie Buss over the weekend. Fast forward to Thursday morning, and Pelinka extended the offer that could redefine the Lakers' future. ✨
This bold move comes after the Lakers parted ways with coach Darvin Ham following the 2023-24 season. Initially, they had their sights set on University of Connecticut Huskies' boss Dan Hurley, even dangling a six-year, $70 million deal. However, Hurley turned them down, paving the way for Redick's unexpected ascension. 🏀
Fans are eagerly anticipating how Redick's sharpshooting expertise will translate from the hardwood to the sidelines. Will this fresh face bring a new era of glory to the purple and gold? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure—the next season is going to be 🔥!
Reference(s):
Los Angeles Lakers to appoint rookie JJ Redick as head coach
cgtn.com
