Jonathan Clay J.J. Redick born on June 24, 1984, in Cookeville, Tennessee, is a celebrated basketball player turned coach and sports analyst. Known for his exceptional shooting ability, Redick has left a lasting mark on both college and professional basketball. From his record-setting career at Duke University to a 15-season NBA journey and now as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, Redick’s influence on the game continues to grow.
Moreover, J.J. Redick has made a name for himself in sports media as an ESPN analyst and media entrepreneur, demonstrating versatility both on and off the court. His transition from player to coach highlights his leadership and deep understanding of basketball strategy.
Quick Facts of J.J. Redick
| Full Name | Jonathan Clay “J.J.” Redick |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Cookeville, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Duke University |
| NBA Draft | 2006, 11th overall by Orlando Magic |
| Playing Career | 2006–2021 |
| Coaching Career | 2024–present (Los Angeles Lakers) |
| Spouse | Chelsea Kilgore (m. 2010) |
| Children | Two sons: Knox and Kai |
| Net Worth | Approximately $50 million |
Early Life and Family Background
J.J. Redick grew up in a family that balanced academics and athletics. His father, Ken Redick, played basketball at Ohio Wesleyan University, while his mother, Jeanie, worked as a nurse. Raised in Roanoke, Virginia, Redick was the second of five children, which fostered a competitive spirit. Consequently, this environment helped nurture his passion for basketball from an early age.
He attended Cave Spring High School, where he led his team to a state championship and earned MVP honors in the 2002 McDonald’s All-American Game. This early success laid the foundation for his collegiate and professional achievements.
College Career at Duke University
From 2002 to 2006, J.J. Redick starred at Duke University under Coach Mike Krzyzewski. During this time, he became the program’s all-time leading scorer and set numerous ACC records. Known for his precise three-point shooting and free-throw accuracy, Redick earned the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2006.
Additionally, his leadership and work ethic helped Duke achieve consistent success, and his collegiate career solidified his reputation as one of the premier shooters in basketball history.
NBA Career: Early Years and Orlando Magic
In 2006, Redick was drafted 11th overall by the Orlando Magic, marking the start of his professional career. Over seven seasons with the Magic, he became known for his sharpshooting and ability to stretch defenses, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strategies.
Meanwhile, he also had brief stints with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers. During these years, Redick established himself as a reliable perimeter scorer and an intelligent team player.
Philadelphia 76ers and Later Career
In 2017, J.J. Redick signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. Here, he provided veteran leadership and consistent three-point shooting, which proved pivotal in the team’s playoff runs. Later, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans and finished his playing career with the Dallas Mavericks in 2021.
Over 15 NBA seasons, he averaged 12.8 points per game and was widely recognized as one of the league’s top three-point shooters. Consequently, his legacy in the NBA is defined by both skill and professionalism.
Transition to Broadcasting and Coaching
After retiring in 2021, Redick joined ESPN as a basketball analyst. His deep insights and engaging commentary quickly gained popularity. Furthermore, in 2024, he embraced a new challenge as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite limited coaching experience, Redick’s comprehensive basketball knowledge and leadership abilities made him a compelling choice for the role.
Personal Life and Relationships
Redick married Chelsea Kilgore, a Pilates instructor, in 2010. They have two sons, Knox (born 2014) and Kai (born 2016), and reside in Brooklyn, New York. The family enjoys a close-knit and private life, often sharing glimpses of their experiences on social media.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2024, J.J. Redick’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. This wealth comes from NBA salaries, broadcasting work, and endorsements. During his playing career, he earned nearly $117 million, allowing him a comfortable lifestyle with luxury homes and vehicles.
Interesting Facts and Legacy
- Redick is an avid reader and frequently shares book recommendations with fans.
- He co-founded the media company ThreeFourTwo Productions.
- He was the first NBA player to host a weekly podcast during the regular season.
Additionally, J.J. Redick has used his platform for charitable work through the JJ Redick Foundation, supporting underprivileged youth in sports. His career is a model of skill, professionalism, and versatility.
Future Plans and Cultural Influence
As Lakers head coach, J.J. Redick focuses on player development and innovative strategies. His journey from player to coach exemplifies a broader trend of athletes moving into leadership roles, influencing both basketball and sports culture at large.
