It took several years, but Pat Riley finally earned his own statue outside the Crypto.com Arena for his iconic tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, joining other icons of this iconic franchise.
He was a larger-than-life figure during his two-decade tenure in Los Angeles. Now, it’s become more literal with an eight-foot bronze tribute. It was unveiled at a ceremony before the Lakers host the Boston Celtics on Sunday.
It was a perfect fit, as Riley led the Lakers to four titles, two of which were at the expense of the Celtics.
Riley, 80, who started out as a TV analyst for the Purple & Gold, was extremely grateful for the generous praise.
“I’m so grateful. I really am. It’s beyond grateful. I’m so grateful to be honored and to be with the giants whose shoulders I jumped on and who lifted me up,” Riley said in a report by Khobi Price of the New York Post.
In addition to Riley, the Lakers have also created statues for NBA legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor and play-by-play commentator Chick Hearn.
Riley, who has served as team president of the Miami Heat since 1995 and has not held a position with the Lakers since leaving in 1990, remains a respected member of the team.
He led the Lakers to their dynastic run in the 1980s and gave birth to the “Showtime” era with his thrilling and fast-paced style. They were as shiny as his slicked back hair and designer suit.
Riley was a perfect fit for Hollywood, helping shape a culture where excellence wasn’t expected, it was expected. Now, his legacy remains even more enduring.
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