A statue honoring the legendary Pat Riley celebrated player, head coach, and executive will soon stand proudly outside the Los Angeles Lakers’ home arena, Crypto.com Arena.
In an announcement made Monday, the Lakers confirmed plans to immortalize Riley with a statue that will solidify his enduring legacy. The project is set for completion by 2026, with details of the unveiling ceremony to follow.
Riley’s storied career with the Lakers began as a player from 1970 to 1975, during which he secured an NBA championship. He returned to the organization in 1979 as an assistant coach, eventually stepping into the head coach role in 1981.
As the mastermind behind the iconic “Showtime Lakers,” Riley guided the team to four NBA championships and three additional Finals appearances before departing in 1990.
“Pat is a Lakers icon,” said Lakers owner Jeanie Buss. “His professionalism, dedication, and meticulous preparation shaped modern coaching standards. The electrifying style of basketball he pioneered in the 1980s remains the Lakers’ blueprint for success: a dynamic and victorious team.”
Following his tenure with the Lakers, Riley went on to coach the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat, claiming another championship with the Heat during the 2005–06 season. He transitioned from head coach to focus on his role as president of basketball operations in 2008.
