Could ESPN color commentator JJ Redick be trading in his headset for a spot on an NBA bench?
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported the Hornets “are interviewing JJ Redick for their head-coaching opening.” Earlier this month, the organization announced former head coach Steve Clifford was stepping down to take a front-office role.
The NBA insider noted Redick has considered entering the coaching world since retiring in 2021. He would be a natural fit in Charlotte after playing collegiately about two hours to the east at Duke.
If he were to get the job, Redick’s absence would be a big loss for ESPN and NBA media at large. Set to call this year’s NBA Finals alongside Mike Breen and Doris Burke, Redick’s quickly ascended the sport’s television ranks.
His commentary has been praised throughout the league, whether when sparring with Stephen A. Smith on “First Take” or podcasting, first with “The Chronicles of Redick” during his playing career and currently “The Old Man And The Three.”
Last month, he started the “Mind the Game” podcast alongside LeBron James.
Having spent the past few years in NBA media, Redick is still acutely aware of what’s going on around the league, so he’s fully conscious of the game’s current trends and where it’s headed.
That makes it obvious why a team like the Hornets, perpetually stuck in purgatory, would be intrigued by his potential as an NBA head coach.
It also means that whatever Charlotte might offer him, ESPN should double it.