JJ Redick makes his feelings clear about bringing back suits as courtside fits as Lakers coach
JJ Redick vowed to bring changes to the LA Lakers during his introduction to the media in late June this year. The former ESPN analyst promised to use more set plays instead of relying on a random offensive style. Redick also emphasized his intention to use “math” in devising game plans as a first-time head coach.
Before the second quarter of LA’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors on Friday, Redick had a chat with former colleague Mike Breen. The veteran broadcaster asked Redick if he would “buck the trend” to bring suits to the NBA sidelines.
JJ Redick responded:
“Unfortunately, the coaching staff all has to match. I tried, Mike, [Breen], I tried. I couldn’t get Bob Beyer, Nate McMillan and Scotty Brooks on board to wear suits again. And by the way, these are not sweats, these are trousers.”
The NBA allowed coaches to forego wearing suits starting the 2020 “Bubble Tournament” at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Sweatpants and sweatshirts became a trend inside the Orlando Disney World in Florida. After the pandemic, most coaches opted for a more casual look during regular NBA games.
JJ Redick, as Mike Breen mentioned, was one of ESPN’s best-dressed analysts. Breen noted the former NBA star’s “beautiful” and “impeccable” suits while they worked together calling games on the broadcast table.
JJ Redick tells Mike Breen coaching the Lakers has been 'incredible'
In his podcast “The Old Man and the Three,” JJ Redick mentioned that coaching was on the horizon for him. He made this comment just a few months after his last NBA game during the 2020-21 season.
Redick’s dream of coaching in the NBA came true when the LA Lakers hired him as Darvin Ham's replacement. When asked by Mike Breen about what it has been like to live that dream, Redick responded:
“It’s been incredible. I wake up every day looking forward to whatever challenges are presented that day. I love coaching this group. They’ve been fantastic so far [and] we’ve got buy-in from across the board.”
After the Lakers' preseason finale against the Warriors on Friday, up next for Redick's team is the regular season, which till begin on Oct. 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.