Basketball Data Scientist, Strategy & Analytics

Los Angeles Lakers; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Los Angeles Lakers seek a Data Scientist for Basketball Data Strategy to build predictive models for player evaluation and roster construction. You’ll work with the Development team on visualizations and with Data Engineering on data upkeep, contributing to in-game strategy and long-term analytics initiatives.

The role requires strong Python and ML skills, experience with large datasets, and the ability to translate insights into coaching and strategic decisions.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience in a data science or machine learning role.
• Proficiency in Python or equivalent language for end-to-end model development.
• Experience with modern ML and deep learning techniques (scikit-learn, TensorFlow).
• Expertise with large data sets (PySpark, SQL); willingness to use geolocation tracking and biomechanical data.
• Familiarity with distributed computing and cloud-first principles.
• Ability to write clean, modular code with version control.
• Strong communication skills; experience with time series forecasting and MLOps is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Utilize statistical analysis and predictive modeling for Basketball Operations.
• Develop production-level models from EDA to deployment.
• Integrate research and basketball metrics into apps and visualizations.
• Analyze data from stakeholders (G League, Player Health, NBA Draft).
• Collaborate with Data Engineering for data maintenance and model upkeep.
• Translate data-driven results into actionable basketball decisions.

Skills

Python

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PySpark

SQL

Time series forecasting

MLOps

GPU computing

Communication skills

Cloud computing

Education

Bachelor’s in Statistics

Tools

Git

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

Los Angeles Lakers seek a Data Scientist for Basketball Data Strategy to build predictive models for player evaluation and roster construction. You’ll work with the Development team on visualizations and with Data Engineering on data upkeep, contributing to in-game strategy and long-term analytics initiatives.

The role requires strong Python and ML skills, experience with large datasets, and the ability to translate insights into coaching and strategic decisions.