JJ Redick: From NBA Star to Coaching Icon

James “JJ” Redick is a name synonymous with basketball excellence, known for his sharpshooting ability, basketball IQ, and leadership on and off the court. His career, which spanned over 15 seasons in the NBA, saw him evolve from a standout collegiate athlete to a respected professional player, and now, as the head coach for the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick’s transition from player to coach is a testament to his deep understanding of the game, his relentless work ethic, and his commitment to the sport.

Early Life and Background

Born in Cookeville, Tennessee

JJ Redick was born on June 24, 1984, in Cookeville, Tennessee. Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Redick showed an early passion for basketball. His father, Ken Redick, was a former high school basketball coach, which gave JJ early exposure to the fundamentals of the game. It was clear from a young age that Redick had a natural aptitude for basketball, and his high school career only served to reinforce this.

At Hickory High School in Virginia, Redick quickly became a standout player, garnering attention from scouts across the nation. He finished his high school career with an impressive scoring record, setting multiple school records, including a career total of 2,000+ points. These accomplishments earned him a scholarship to one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the country.

College Basketball at Duke University

Redick’s college career began at Duke University, where he quickly became one of the top college basketball players in the nation. A standout under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, Redick played for the Duke Blue Devils from 2002 to 2006. During his time at Duke, Redick was known for his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from three-point range.

He was a prolific scorer and became the NCAA Division I all-time leader in free-throw percentage. His time at Duke was marked by numerous accolades, including being named the ACC Player of the Year, a consensus All-American, and winning the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2006. His performances on the court made him one of the most highly anticipated players in the 2006 NBA Draft.

NBA Career: A Journey of Success and Dedication

2006 NBA Draft and Early Career

JJ Redick was selected 11th overall in the 2006 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. Redick’s transition to the NBA was not without its challenges. As a shooter-first player, Redick had to adjust to the speed and physicality of the league. However, he quickly proved that his skills could translate to professional basketball.

Over the course of his 15-year career, Redick played for several teams, including the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, and New Orleans Pelicans. He was primarily known for his exceptional three-point shooting, earning a reputation as one of the best shooters in the league. His ability to stretch the floor and provide offensive firepower off the bench made him an invaluable asset to his teams.

Throughout his career, Redick averaged 12.8 points per game, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 41.5%. He was often called upon to provide instant offense and was especially effective in catch-and-shoot situations. His hard work and dedication to improving his craft made him one of the most respected shooters in the NBA. Redick’s ability to perform under pressure was proven time and time again, earning him a place among the league’s most reliable shooting guards.

Key Moments and Leadership

Redick’s career wasn’t just about his shooting numbers; it was also about his leadership. As a veteran, Redick’s wisdom and guidance were crucial for the teams he played for, particularly with younger players. He earned a reputation for being an excellent locker room presence and a mentor to rookies, helping them adjust to the NBA’s demands both on and off the court.

Some of the key moments in Redick’s career included his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played an important role in helping the team make the playoffs. His leadership and sharpshooting helped the 76ers become contenders during his tenure. Redick’s playoff performances solidified his place as one of the most clutch shooters in the game.

The End of an Era and Transition to Coaching

After playing for over 15 years, Redick officially retired from the NBA. His transition to coaching was a natural next step for him. His deep understanding of the game and his ability to communicate complex concepts made him an ideal candidate for a coaching role. Redick’s leadership experience on the floor translated well into his coaching philosophy, and he was soon named the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Transition to Coaching: Leading the Lakers

JJ Redick as Head Coach of the Lakers

In 2025, JJ Redick was named the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. His appointment came after a period of rebuilding for the franchise, and his leadership was seen as a key component in guiding the Lakers back to championship contention. Redick’s coaching style emphasizes player development, teamwork, and a commitment to both offense and defense.

As head coach, Redick has focused on developing young talent while maintaining the team’s championship aspirations. His ability to relate to players, particularly those with similar experiences as him, has made him an effective coach for both veterans and rookies alike. Under his leadership, the Lakers have seen a resurgence in their offensive schemes, with Redick’s emphasis on spacing, ball movement, and shooting being central to the team’s philosophy.

Philosophy and Approach

Redick’s coaching philosophy is grounded in the principles of hard work, accountability, and mental toughness. Having played under some of the greatest coaches in the NBA, including Mike Krzyzewski at Duke and various NBA head coaches, Redick has learned valuable lessons about what it takes to be successful at the highest level. He stresses the importance of discipline and preparation, both in practice and in games.

In addition to his focus on the technical aspects of the game, Redick is known for his ability to connect with his players on a personal level. He has emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with his athletes, ensuring they feel supported both as players and individuals. This approach has helped foster a positive team culture in Los Angeles, making Redick not just a coach but a mentor and leader for his players.

JJ Redick’s Personal Life

Family and Community

Off the court, JJ Redick is known for his commitment to his family and his involvement in various charitable endeavors. He is married to his wife, Chelsea, and the couple has two children. Redick has always emphasized the importance of family in his life, and his devotion to his wife and children is frequently mentioned in interviews.

Redick is also deeply involved in philanthropy, particularly in initiatives that support underprivileged communities and youth development programs. He has donated both time and money to organizations that help at-risk youth pursue basketball and education. His commitment to helping others is a core part of his identity, both as a player and a coach.

The Impact of the California Wildfires

Recently, Redick’s personal life has been marked by the devastation caused by the California wildfires. Tragically, Redick and his family lost their home in the Pacific Palisades during the fires. In an emotional press conference, Redick recounted the difficulty of losing his home, emphasizing that, while material possessions are replaceable, the emotional toll of such a loss is far greater. Despite this hardship, Redick has shown resilience, focusing on rebuilding his community and providing support for those affected by the fires. His transparency and emotional honesty have resonated with many of his fans and colleagues, further cementing his reputation as a compassionate and grounded individual.

JJ Redick’s Career Stats and Achievements

• NBA Career: Redick played 940 regular-season games over 15 seasons.
• Points Per Game: 12.8
• Three-Point Percentage: 41.5%
• Assists Per Game: 2.0
• Rebounds Per Game: 2.0
• NBA Teams Played For: Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks
• Notable Achievements: 1x All-ACC, 1x NBA All-Rookie Team, multiple appearances in the playoffs.

Legacy and Impact

JJ Redick’s career, both as a player and a coach, has had a profound impact on the NBA. His legacy as one of the best shooters of his generation is secure, but his influence goes beyond statistics. His work ethic, leadership, and commitment to his community have left a lasting impression on the game. As head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, Redick is shaping the future of basketball, guiding the next generation of players while continuing to represent the ideals of hard work, dedication, and resilience.