Pat Riley Gets Lakers Statue
The Los Angeles Lakers unveiled a statue honoring Pat Riley, celebrating his legendary 9-year tenure that included 7 Finals appearances and 4 championships as the "Godfather of Showtime." The ceremony recognizes Riley's impact on the Lakers' dynasty during the 1980s. NBA fans are buzzing about the honor for the Hall of Fame coach and executive.
- Pat Riley's statue is placed in Star Plaza outside Crypto.com Arena, joining other Lakers icons such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Jerry West, and Elgin Baylor. - During his nine seasons as head coach, Riley compiled a regular-season record of 533-194, which is the highest winning percentage in Lakers history (.733). He also holds the franchise record for playoff wins with 102. - The "Showtime" Lakers' fast-paced offense was built around Hall of Famers Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James "Big Game James" Worthy, with key contributions from players like Michael Cooper, Byron Scott, and A.C. Green. - After leaving the Lakers in 1990, Riley coached the New York Knicks to the 1994 NBA Finals and later joined the Miami Heat, where he won another championship as head coach in 2006 and two more as team president in 2012 and 2013. - He is the only person in North American major sports history to win a championship as a player (1972 Lakers), assistant coach (1980 Lakers), head coach (five titles), and executive (two titles). - Riley is a three-time NBA Coach of the Year, uniquely winning the award with three different franchises: the Lakers (1990), New York Knicks (1993), and Miami Heat (1997). - While coaching the Lakers in 1988, Riley trademarked the phrase "three-peat" after winning back-to-back championships, a term that has since become a common part of the sports lexicon.
