Introduction

The Los Angeles Lakers recently added some fun to their routine with a team-wide pickleball tournament, where head coach JJ Redick showcased a surprising level of competitiveness. Players witnessed a new side of their coach, especially during the thrilling semifinals against guard Luka Dončić.

Main Body

In a heated match, Dončić outplayed Redick, much to the amusement of his teammates. Dončić relished the victory, recalling how his coach was "so pissed" after the defeat. Ultimately, Luka's journey in the tournament ended in the finals where he faced teammate Jake LaRavia and assistant coach Beau Levesque.

Redick himself reflected on the tournament, calling it "a lot of fun" while acknowledging the competitive nature of the event. He playfully noted that he felt the weight of carrying his three-man team, hinting at the tactical challenges that often accompany coaching in the NBA. Managing the locker room dynamics is as crucial as handling game strategies, particularly over the grind of an 82-game regular season.

The pickleball tournament served as a welcome break for the Lakers, who had four days off following back-to-back victories over the Utah Jazz. It also provided an opportunity for players to bond and enjoy some light-hearted competition, despite the evident frustration Redick exhibited upon his semifinal loss.