The Los Angeles Lakers have announced that they will be commissioning a statue of legendary coach Pat Riley, set to be completed in 2026. Riley, who won six championships with the team as both a player and coach, will be honored with a statue in Star Plaza outside of Crypto.com Arena.
Lakers governor Jeanie Buss surprised Riley with the announcement during a video call, where his wife, former players, and other team members joined in the celebration. Buss praised Riley as a Lakers icon, highlighting his professionalism, commitment to the game, and ability to create winning teams. Riley’s coaching style and success in the 80s laid the foundation for the organization’s continued success.
Riley will be the eighth Lakers figure to receive a statue, joining the likes of Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Throughout his coaching tenure with the Lakers, Riley boasted an impressive record and earned Coach of the Year honors for the 1989-90 season.
Currently serving as the team president and minority owner of the Miami Heat, Riley has had a storied career in the NBA, coaching both the Heat and the New York Knicks. The upcoming statue will honor his contributions to the Lakers organization and his impact on the game of basketball as a whole.
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