Lakers unveil statue of legendary former coach Pat Riley - ESPN

ESPN

by Dave McMenamin

February 23, 2026

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The Los Angeles Lakers unveiled a statue of legendary coach Pat Riley outside Crypto.com Arena, honoring his immense contribution to basketball. The nearly 8-foot-tall bronze sculpture captures Riley in his signature Giorgio Armani suit, holding up his fist in the air—a nod to the iconic "Showtime" Lakers era. Riley expressed a desire for coaches to return to more formal attire, stating that dressing like a leader resonates with audiences. The NBA’s casual dress code, adopted during the 2020 bubble, has been maintained despite his suggestion. The event was attended by basketball greats like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Dwyane Wade, along with actor Michael Douglas, who revealed that Riley inspired his iconic Gordon Gekko character. The statue’s base features an inscription reflecting Riley’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in challenging times. Riley also reflected on his coaching career, including recruiting LeBron James to the Miami Heat and building a championship-winning team. The unveiling highlights Riley’s lasting legacy with the Lakers, where he won four championships. As one of eight Lakers to receive a statue on Star Plaza, Riley joins an elite group of basketball legends. His statue not only commemorates his achievements but also underscores his influence on the game, both as a coach and a leader. The event serves as a reminder of the cultural impact of coaches like Riley, who have shaped the sport’s history and inspired future generations.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/23/2026