The Los Angeles Lakers are set to honor the legendary Pat Riley with a statue outside the Crypto.com Arena, scheduled for unveiling in 2026.
Riley’s career with the Lakers began in 1981, when he was hired as an assistant coach under Paul Westhead. After Westhead was fired in 1981, Riley took over as head coach, leading the Lakers to the 1982 NBA championship in his first full season.
Over the next decade, Riley’s leadership helped the team claim four titles (1982, 1985, 1987, 1988), with his innovative coaching style and emphasis on team dynamics.
Under Riley, the Lakers’ championship teams featured Hall of Fame players such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy.
Riley’s success wasn’t limited to just the NBA Finals, as his ability to manage personalities and develop strategies revolutionized the Lakers’ approach to the game.
Riley’s influence extended beyond coaching. His legacy in Los Angeles helped build the Lakers’ global brand, elevating the franchise to an international powerhouse.
His accomplishments with the Lakers earned him numerous accolades, including NBA Coach of the Year honors and induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
With the statue set to be unveiled in 2026, Riley joins a distinguished group of former Lakers players, coaches, and figures who have been immortalized outside the arena.
The statues of Elgin Baylor, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jerry West, and Chick Hearn are already proudly displayed, with Riley’s statue set to stand as a lasting tribute to his indelible impact on the franchise.
