Tag: Pat Riley

Pat Riley statue unveiled outside Lakers arena to mark Showtime architect’s legacy

Pat Riley
February 2026

The Lakers unveiled an 8-foot bronze statue of Pat Riley in Star Plaza, making him the first Lakers coach honored with a statue outside the arena. Riley attended the ceremony as the statue was placed between Abdul-Jabbar and Johnson, celebrating his role in four Lakers titles as head coach and the creation of the Showtime era. Speakers included Abdul-Jabbar, Johnson and Buss, with former players and notable guests present.

Pat Riley statue to be unveiled at Lakers arena, first coach honored in bronze

Pat Riley
February 2026

The Lakers will unveil a Pat Riley statue outside Crypto.com Arena, making him the first coach honored in the franchise’s statue lineup after leading the Showtime era and winning four titles as head coach. The tribute recognizes Riley’s role in shaping the Lakers’ identity in the 1980s, including multiple Finals runs, the defensive standards he demanded, and the “threepeat” legacy he popularized, placing him alongside the franchise’s most iconic figures.

Bam Adebayo Wins NBA Cares Community Assist Award for December Outreach Work

Bam Adebayo
January 2026

Adebayo was named the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for December, recognised for hosting a major toy drive and funding youth experiences through his foundation. The NBA and NBPA Foundation will donate $20,000 to support the work. His initiatives included bringing thousands of students to Kaseya Center, distributing tens of thousands of toys, and hosting curated trips for student-athletes featuring classes, panels, and game access. He also arranged special support for students facing hardship, including gear packages.

Lakers to Honor Pat Riley with Statue Ceremony

Pat Riley (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers will unveil a statue of legendary coach Pat Riley outside their arena before facing the Boston Celtics. Riley, who won four NBA titles during the Showtime era, joins Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Riley coached the Lakers to a 533-194 record and five 60-win seasons, shaping NBA history with fast-break dominance. Now president of Miami Heat, he remains one of basketball’s most influential figures. The tribute cements his legacy alongside other Lakers greats.

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