Why will Pat Riley get a Lakers statue? History, legacy of the legend of Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Lakers will celebrate Pat Riley with the unveiling of a statue outside Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, February 22.
The team will hold a private ceremony before the showdown between the Lakers and the rival Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon.
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Riley played an integral role in helping the Lakers organization achieve on-court success and a strong brand identity during the 1980s.
It will be the 15th statue outside Crypto.com Arena, joining a list of other notable figures in LA Sports history, including Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson celebrates with the trophy and Pat Riley after winning the Slam Dunk competition during NBA All-Star Saturday Night 2026 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on February 14, 2026.
Why will Pat Riley get a Lakers statue? History and documentation
Riley spent 58 years in the NBA, serving as a player, coach and executive.
He won an NBA championship in each of these roles, including as a player (1972), assistant coach (198) and coach (1982, 1985, 1987-88). He also led the Miami Heat to the championship as head coach in 2006 and as an executive in 2012 and 2013.
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Riley not only helped bring championships to their respective organizations, but also instilled a unique culture.
Riley became the perfect choice for the Lakers during the 1980s, what is called the “Showtime Lakers” era because he blended the perfect combination of Hollywood style and on-court showmanship using a roster that included Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy.
Riley paired this style with her signature slicked back hair and Armani suits. The success and unique look of the legend continued in the following decades.
He currently serves as president of the Miami Heat, a role he has held since 1995 and has applied what he learned during his time with the Lakers.
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Riley drafted Dwyane Wade and acquired Shaquille O’Neal before winning his first title away from the Lakers in 2006. He would step down as head coach in 2008, but remain in his role as president. As an executive, he helped build a super team, having Chris Bosh and LeBron James join Wade in winning back-to-back titles for Miami.
Is Pat Riley a basketball Hall of Famer?
Riley is among the all-time winningest coaches in NBA history, with a record of 1,210-694 (.636%). He was enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lakers honor Pat Riley with statue outside arena