After a frustrating Lakers loss to the Magic on Thursday, JJ Redick revealed the literal dark place he goes after defeats.
JJ Redick has made it a point multiple times to call himself a “sicko” when it comes to basketball. While he used that as the rational for leaving a job in media and joining the coaching ranks with the Lakers, it also shows up in other ways.
For example, after losses, JJ is very visibly annoyed postgame. That was particularly the case on Thursday when the Lakers blew a winnable game late against the Magic by missing four free throws in the final 40 seconds.
During his presser, Redick was asked about how he handles losses and he revealed he goes to a dark place. Like, literally.
In response to a question from @Rachel__Nichols, JJ Redick says “I go to a very dark place. Literally. It’s the basement, I turn the lights out and I watch film” pic.twitter.com/X2CXQEjmiZ
— CJ Fogler (@cjzero) November 22, 2024
If you’re going into your basement to watch film after a game, surely you’re taking some sort of food with you. What do you think JJ’s snack of choice is? Candy? Chocolate? Is he picking up some Del Taco or Jack in the Box on the way home?
Truly, it is a blessing that the Lakers are good this year because I do not think JJ could have handled continuous losing. He might have already quit if they had started 2-10 as they did two seasons ago.
Fortunately, he is good at his job, so that means he hasn’t had to experience losing too often this year. LeBron had a pretty funny exchange when asked about Redick’s comments and if that’s sustainable all season.
“I don’t know. I’m not a coach, right?” LeBron said. “I don’t know. I’m a player. I ain’t never went home with a coach before after a game in my life…So I have no idea.”
Yeah! He only takes players on the roster home this season, not coaches!
I think I trust JJ to be able to compartmentalize things appropriately after his lengthy basketball career.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.