Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has expressed deep admiration for Serbian basketball coaching, citing its impact on player development and discipline.
The former NBA sharpshooter revealed his plans to send his sons to a basketball camp in Serbia when they are older, underscoring his appreciation for the country’s coaching methods.
Speaking on The Hoop Collective podcast, NBA insider Brian Windhorst shed light on Redick’s respect for Serbian basketball culture.
“JJ is an incredible admirer of Serbian coaching,” Windhorst said. “I think he’s even mentioned wanting to send his boys to Serbia for summer basketball camps because he admires the way Serbians coach their players.”
Serbia is renowned for its basketball tradition, producing some of the sport’s most influential coaches. Names like Zeljko Obradovic, a nine-time EuroLeague champion, and the late Dusko Ivanovic, who left a lasting legacy, highlight the nation’s prominence in global basketball.
Serbian coaching emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and teamwork, elements that Redick reportedly values highly.
Redick, now in his first season as the Lakers’ head coach, is off to a strong start. Under his guidance, the Lakers hold a 9-4 record and sit third in the Western Conference.
The Lakers coach’s admiration for Serbian methods aligns with a growing trend in the NBA, where international basketball styles are increasingly influencing the league.
With Serbian stars like three-time MVP Nikola Jokic dominating the NBA, the country’s coaching reputation continues to rise.
