JJ Redick’s debut as an NBA head coach was a memorable one, with the Lakers securing a 110-103 win against the Timberwolves.
Redick’s Quotable Moments:
Redick, known for his time as a media analyst, has a way with words that keeps people talking. After the game, he humorously questioned why new basketballs are used in games but not in practices. “Anybody who’s ever touched the NBA ball brand-new, it’s a different feel and touch than a worn-in basketball,” he noted. During a timeout, he realized they were using a new ball and exclaimed his surprise: “Why are we playing with this ball?” He even joked about sending a request to use worn-in balls instead.
Redick: "I'm gonna send in a request for the league tomorrow that we can play with worn-in basketballs."
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN)
Team Unity in Style:
On game night, Redick and his coaching team all wore Nike Dunks. This choice of footwear showed their unity and camaraderie. Afterward, Redick expressed gratitude towards his staff, saying how natural it felt to be leading them alongside talented players.
JJ Redick and his whole coaching staff are wearing Nike Dunks ๐ฅ
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig)
Shooting Struggles but Staying Confident:
Despite shooting poorly from three-point rangeโonly 5 out of 30โRedick encouraged his players to keep shooting. He told them during a timeout that they were getting great shots and assured them they’d eventually start going in.
Fans love seeing coaches who believe in their team’s potential no matter what!
His creativity shone through when running plays for Anthony Davis and Dalton Knecht; these moments made spectators nod approvingly at his strategic brilliance.
This is pure filth from JJ Redick to start the third quarter. A 1-4 High Iverson set with Reaves coming across, the play, AD cross screening for LBJ to go set an empty side slip screen for Reaves. Pocket pass from Reaves forces the Gobert help which sets up the AD lob. Whew.
— Sam Vecenie (@Sam_Vecenie)
Executing His Game Plan:
Before stepping into this role, Redick emphasized focusing on details like offensive rebounds and transition defense. The Lakers delivered by outperforming Minnesota on offensive boards (15-12) and fast-break points (17-7), while also minimizing turnovers significantly compared to their opponents.
https://x.com/hoopstonite/status/1848964667151921252
Jason Timpf praised Redick for sticking with Russell and Reaves despite their off nightsโa decision contrasting sharply with former coach Darvin Hamโs tendency to bench key players too soon last season.
In conclusion… well done JJ!
