Pat Riley sends a ‘thank you’ message after unveiling statue in Los Angeles
It took a few years, but Pat Riley finally earned his own statue outside the Cripto.com Arena of his own iconic stint with the Los Angeles Lakersjoining other icons of the legendary franchise.
He was a larger-than-life figure in two decades in Los Angeles. Now it’s become more literal with an eight-foot bronze accolade. It was revealed at a ceremony before The Lakers hosted the Boston Celtics on Sunday.
It was fitting, as Riley coached the Lakers to four titles, two of which came at the expense of the Celtics.
Eighty-year-old Riley, who started out as a TV analyst for the Purple and Gold, was extremely grateful for generous recognition.
“I’m so grateful. I really am. It’s beyond grateful. I’m so grateful to be honored and to be with those who are giants that I jumped on their shoulders and they carried me,” Riley said in a report by Khobi Price of the New York Post.
In addition to Riley, the Lakers also built statues for NBA legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor and commentator Chick Hearn.
Riley, who has been the team president of the Miami Heat since 1995, has not held a position with the Lakers since leaving in 1990, and remains respected by the team.
He led the Lakers on their dynastic run in the 1980s, giving birth to the “Showtime” era with his exciting and fast-paced style. They were as shiny as his slicked back hair and designer suits.
Riley was perfect for Hollywood, helping to shape a culture where excellence was not expected, but expected. Now his legacy is even more lasting.
2026-02-23 02:50:00
