Alex Cerda Named Head Coach Of Coachella Valley Lakers

The Coachella Valley Lakers announced Alex Cerda has been named the 12th head coach in franchise history.

Cerda succeeds Zach Guthrie, who has joined JJ Redick’s Los Angeles Lakers coaching staff, and enters his fourth season with the team after serving as an assistant coach for the previous three years.

“Alex has been an important part of our program for the last three seasons and we’re excited for him to lead us into this next chapter,” said Coachella Valley Lakers General Manager Nick Mazzella. “His ability to connect with players, his understanding of our development philosophy and his experience across the NBA and G League make him a natural fit for this role. We believe Alex will continue to build a program that prepares players to contribute at the NBA level while representing the standards of the Lakers organization.”

Before joining the Lakers, Cerda served as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator for the Texas Legends from 2021-23 following two seasons in the Los Angeles Clippers video department. He began his professional coaching career with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants in 2016 as head video coordinator and player development coach.

“I am incredibly grateful and honored for the opportunity to lead the Coachella Valley Lakers,” Cerda said. “This organization has played an important role in my professional journey, and I have tremendous respect for the people, players and coaches who have helped me grow along the way. I’m excited to build on the foundation that has been established here and create a team that our players and fans can be proud of. My focus will be on developing a competitive, connected and resilient group that plays with purpose every night, while continuing to develop our players and prepare them for the next level.”

Coachella Valley will tip off its 2026-27 NBA G League season Nov. 6 versus the Salt Lake City Stars at Acrisure Arena, which is their new official home in Palm Desert. The team will be led by two-way players Chris Mañon, Arthur Kaluma and AK Okereke, as well as some potential returnees from last season.

Lakers sign Anton Watson to Exhibit 10 contract

With the start of training camp just around the corner, the Lakers are filling up their roster as they are allowed to carry 21 players before needing to get down to 15 before Opening Night.

With that being the case, the Lakers announced they have signed Anton Watson to an Exhibit 10 contract. That means he will likely be added to the team’s G League roster for the 2026-27 season, making his return after spending most of last season with them as well.