Phil Handy Declines Assistant Coach Role Under J.J. Redick, Cites Experience Disparity

In a surprising development within the NBA coaching circles, renowned assistant coach Phil Handy has declined an opportunity to serve under J.J. Redick. Handy, who boasts a wealth of experience and multiple NBA championships, expressed that he found the proposition of working as an assistant to Redick, a former player with significantly less coaching experience, to be an insult.

Handy, who has built a reputation as one of the league’s top assistant coaches through his stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Lakers, believes his extensive coaching resume warrants a higher position. “With all due respect to J.J. Redick and his knowledge of the game, it should have been the other way around,” Handy remarked. “Given my years of experience and the success I’ve had in this league, I find it inappropriate to be considered for an assistant role under someone just beginning their coaching journey.”

Redick, who recently retired from a distinguished playing career, has been fast-tracked into coaching positions, generating a mix of support and skepticism within the basketball community. While his understanding of the game from a player’s perspective is highly regarded, his coaching experience pales in comparison to Handy’s.

Phil Handy’s track record includes key roles in developing some of the NBA’s brightest stars and contributing to multiple championship teams. His decision to reject the assistant coach position under Redick underscores the importance of experience and hierarchy in coaching roles.

As both men navigate their careers post this decision, the dynamics of coaching appointments and respect for established experience remain a topic of discussion among NBA insiders and fans alike.