The Los Angeles Lakers made waves this offseason by appointing former NBA guard JJ Redick as their new head coach, despite his lack of coaching experience. While many celebrated the hire, praising Redick’s basketball acumen, others questioned the decision. One former Lakers champion, now assistant coach with the Dallas Mavericks, Jared Dudley, appeared to indirectly critique Redick’s quick ascent to head coaching.
“I aspire to be a head coach, that’s my dream… At the same time… Some of us aren’t J.J. Redick and get to go right away.” Dudley, vocal about his coaching ambitions, may have felt overshadowed by Redick’s rapid promotion.
Although Dudley’s initial comments seemed critical, he later clarified his stance on social media, expressing support for Redick: “JJ is my guy! Great opportunity for him! Jkidd did it so did Steve Kerr and my boy Steve Nash! Very rare opportunity! Ex players! Gotta love it!”
Dudley remains focused on his coaching aspirations while aiding the Mavericks’ quest for the NBA Finals. Meanwhile, Redick faces high expectations as he embarks on his coaching journey.