10 Key Facts About JJ Redick’s New Role as Lakers’ Head Coach

The Los Angeles Lakers have a new head coach, and it’s JJ Redick!

He signed a four-year contract after weeks of speculation and a thorough search process.

Even though he doesn’t have prior head coaching experience, Redick brings a fresh perspective to the team.

Quick Facts About JJ Redick’s New Role with the Lakers

TopicDetails
New RoleHead Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers
Contract DurationFour years
Annual Salary$8 million
Total Contract Value$32 million
Previous ExperienceESPN analyst, podcast host, youth coach
ReplacesDarvin Ham
NBA Playing Career15 seasons, six teams
Key Stats12.8 PPG, 41.5% 3P, 1,950 3Ps
Post-NBA CareerPodcaster, ESPN analyst
FamilyWife: Chelsea; Children: Knox, Kai
Net Worth (2024)$50 million
Coaching HighlightsFirst head coach job, close with LeBron
College CareerDuke University, ACC Player of the Year

1. Who is the New Head Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers?

JJ Redick, 39, is stepping into his first head coaching role with the Lakers.

Known for his sharp basketball mind and strong communication skills, he was chosen over experienced candidates like James Borrego, Sam Cassell, and David Adelman.

Lakers’ executive VP, Rob Pelinka, was particularly impressed by Redick’s ability to connect with players and his deep understanding of the game.

Key Points About the Hiring:

  • No prior head coaching experience beyond coaching his son’s youth team.
  • ESPN analyst for the past three seasons and hosts popular basketball podcasts.
  • Lakers will support Redick with an experienced coaching staff.
  • Replaces Darvin Ham, who was dismissed after two seasons.

“JJ Redick’s ability to connect with players is unmatched. His insights and passion for the game make him a great fit for our team,” said Rob Pelinka during the announcement. (Source: ESPN)

2. What are the Contract Details for JJ Redick with the Lakers?

JJ Redick has signed a four-year contract with the Lakers worth about $8 million per season.

That’s around $32 million over the contract’s duration.

The contract shows the Lakers’ confidence in Redick’s potential as a head coach, even without professional coaching experience.

Contract Highlights:

  • Four-year duration
  • $8 million per season
  • Total value of around $32 million
  • Standard terms for an NBA head coach

3. What is JJ Redick’s Basketball Career Like?

College Career:

  • Played for Duke University from 2002 to 2006.
  • Won ACC Player of the Year and the Adolph F. Rupp Trophy in 2005.
  • Set ACC records for most points and career ACC tournament points.
  • Finished as Duke’s all-time leading scorer.

NBA Career:

  • Drafted 11th overall by the Orlando Magic in 2006.
  • Played 15 seasons for six different teams.
  • Teams included: Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Dallas Mavericks.
  • Averaged 12.8 points in 940 regular-season games.
  • Made 1,950 career three-pointers, ranking 15th in NBA history at retirement.
  • Known for excellent three-point and free-throw shooting.
  • Announced retirement on September 21, 2021.

“Playing in the NBA was a dream come true. I’ve learned so much from the game and now I’m excited to share that knowledge in a new role,” Redick mentioned in an interview after his retirement. (Source: The Athletic)

Post-NBA Career:

  • Became a podcaster and ESPN analyst.
  • Started his podcast during his playing career, becoming the first NBA player to do so during the regular season.

Also Read: What Makes Bill Belichick a Legendary Coach and Who is His New Girlfriend, Jordon Hudson?

4. What are JJ Redick’s Career Stats?

Key Career Stats:

  • 15 seasons in the NBA.
  • Appeared in 940 regular-season games.
  • Averages: 12.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game.
  • Shot 41.5% from three-point range.
  • Made 1,950 career three-pointers, ranking 15th in NBA history at retirement.
  • Career free throw percentage of 89.2%.
  • Career true shooting percentage of 60.2%.
  • Scored a career-high 40 points in a game on January 18, 2016.
  • Set single-season franchise records for three-pointers with multiple teams.

5. What is JJ Redick’s Coaching Career About?

JJ Redick’s coaching career is just starting, with his recent hiring by the Lakers marking his first head coaching job.

Despite his lack of formal coaching experience, Redick’s basketball knowledge and communication skills have made a strong impression on the Lakers’ management.

Coaching Career Highlights:

  • First head coaching job at any level.
  • Signed a four-year contract with the Lakers worth $8 million per season.
  • No prior coaching experience beyond his son’s youth team.
  • Previously an ESPN analyst and podcast host.
  • Lakers plan to surround him with an experienced coaching staff.
  • Strong relationship with Lakers superstar LeBron James.

“I’ve always believed in the importance of mentorship and learning from the best. Coaches like Mike Krzyzewski have had a profound impact on me, and I hope to bring that same influence to the Lakers,” Redick said in a recent podcast. (Source: Mind the Game Podcast)

6. What was Discussed in the Podcast Between JJ Redick and LeBron?

JJ Redick and LeBron James co-host a podcast called “Mind the Game,” where they dive into various basketball-related topics.

Podcast Highlights:

  • In Episode 6, they discussed the evolution of three-point shooting in the NBA, including modern offense, shot creation, and defensive challenges.
  • Episode 5 covered differences between regular season and playoff basketball, LeBron’s memorable playoff moments, and the mental toll of a 7-game series.
  • The podcast features in-depth basketball analysis, personal anecdotes, and discussions with guest experts.
  • Available on platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

7. What are JJ Redick’s Career Earnings?

JJ Redick’s NBA career earnings total approximately $118,345,008, with adjustments for inflation bringing this figure to around $150,510,404.

Earnings Breakdown:

  • Highest single-season salary: $23,000,000 with the Philadelphia 76ers (2017-18 season).
  • Notable contracts:
  • One-year, $23 million contract with the 76ers (2017).
  • Two-year, $26.5 million contract with the Pelicans (2019).
  • Four-year, $27 million contract with the Clippers (2013).
  • Earnings increased significantly in the latter half of his career.

8. What is JJ Redick’s Net Worth in 2024?

As of 2024, JJ Redick’s net worth is estimated to be $50 million.

This wealth is a result of his successful NBA career, post-retirement endeavors in sports media, and various business ventures.

Net Worth Highlights:

  • Estimated at $50 million in 2024.
  • Earnings from a 15-year NBA career.
  • Successful transition to sports media and broadcasting.

9. Who are the Members of JJ Redick’s Family?

JJ Redick comes from a family of athletes and has strong family ties.

Family Members:

  • Wife: Chelsea Kilgore (married in 2010).
  • Children: Sons Knox and Kai.
  • Parents: Jeanie and Ken Redick.
  • Siblings:
  • Catie and Alyssa (older twin sisters, former basketball players).
  • David (younger brother, former football player).
  • Abigail (youngest sister, former basketball player).
  • Extended Family: Chelsea’s twin sister Kylee Jean and her parents Robin and John Kilgore.

10. Who is JJ Redick’s Wife?

Chelsea Kilgore is JJ Redick’s wife.

Born on May 12, 1987, in Florida, she has a background in elementary education and is a Pilates instructor and fitness expert.

Key Details:

  • Degree in elementary education and teaching from Mississippi State University.
  • Co-manages the JJ Redick Foundation.
  • Met JJ in 2008, married in June 2010.
  • Two sons: Knox and Kai.
  • Maintains a private life, supportive of JJ’s career.
  • Twin sister Kylee Jean works in Public Relations in New York City.

Conclusion

JJ Redick’s journey from NBA player to head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers is a testament to his dedication and basketball IQ.

This new chapter in his career promises exciting developments for the Lakers and their fans.

With a supportive family and a wealth of experience both on and off the court, Redick is well-equipped to take on this challenging role.

FAQs:

How old is JJ Redick?

JJ Redick is 39 years old. He was born on June 24, 1984, so he’s about to turn 40 soon.

What is JJ Redick’s hometown?

JJ Redick hails from Cookeville, Tennessee. That’s where he was born and spent his early years.

How many kids does JJ Redick have?

JJ Redick is a dad to two children. He and his wife Chelsea Kilgore have two sons named Knox and Kai.

Does JJ Redick have a championship ring?

No, JJ Redick does not have a championship ring.

Also Read:

How Jerry West Became an NBA Legend: Career, Achievements, and More

How Dan Hurley Became UConn’s Highest-Paid Coach and Led Them to Victory

Alistair Thiedicke hails from Hamburg, Germany, where his love for sports took root. Growing up a die-hard fan, his passion for sports evolved into a career in sports writing. Since 2023, Alistair has been a dedicated writer and editor at Viz Times, covering Soccer, NBA, WNBA, NFL, MLB, and more. His engaging articles captivate sports enthusiasts everywhere.