Opinions continue to swirl around JJ Redick’s transition from a media personality to the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, sparking conversations and disputes. A recent instance revolves around a tweet from a woman named Halleemah Nash, who claims to be a UNC graduate. She shared her experience, saying,
“I’ve only been called the N word to my face by a white man once in my life and it was on the campus of Duke University while I was doing work with the basketball team. And today he was named the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. What a world.”
As none of us were present during the incident, interpretations and inclinations often shape how we perceive such matters. This is a natural aspect of human behavior.
However, it is important to note the following:
During JJ’s time at Duke, we had corresponded with his father, a principled man who understandably was offended by how his son was treated within the ACC.
Subsequently, we discovered that the Redicks were, in essence, free-spirited and artistic individuals, living a lifestyle somewhat removed from the bustle of modern society. They were the antithesis of what one might consider as narrow-minded or uncouth.
It is inconceivable that such behavior would be condoned within the Redick family. Moreover, it is unlikely that Mike Krzyzewski, during his tenure at Duke, would have tolerated it either. The most critical comment we heard from a Duke player regarding Redick was when Jon Scheyer mentioned that Redick, during his visit, “wasn’t very nice.”
In the NBA, we have not heard any negative remarks about Redick from coaches or teammates. As far as we can ascertain, even LeBron James, who co-hosted a podcast with Redick, holds him in esteem, as do numerous current and former NBA players who have appeared on Redick’s podcasts.
For the past 24 years, dating back to 2002, Redick has established a reputation that stands in stark contrast to Nash’s allegations.
While we cannot confirm or deny the veracity of Nash’s claim, it is fair to state that there is no observable pattern of such behavior. Furthermore, proving such an incident from over two decades ago is exceedingly challenging.
There are often reasons why individuals do not raise such issues when they occur, but generally, it enhances credibility if they do.
Leave a Reply