Tag: Showtime

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.

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