Los Angeles Lakers to Celebrate Pat Riley with Historic Statue at Star Plaza Honoring His Legendary Career Pat Riley Statue Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to honor Pat Riley, one of the most iconic figures in franchise history, with a statue at Star Plaza outside Crypto.com Arena on February 22, 2026. The unveiling will occur before a thrilling matchup against their historic rivals, the Boston Celtics, making it a night of nostalgia, excitement, and celebration.
Pat Riley’s Journey from Player to Coach
Pat Riley’s journey with the Lakers began in the 1970s as a guard on the team. While not the star, he was a vital member of the 1972 championship team, which set a record with 33 consecutive wins—a milestone that still stands today.
After retiring as a player, Riley remained close to the game, serving as a broadcaster before rising to the role of head coach in the early 1980s. His leadership would mark the beginning of one of the most successful eras in NBA history.
Early Career Achievements
- Member of the 1972 championship team
- Developed expertise in basketball analysis as a broadcaster
- Became Lakers head coach in 1981
The Showtime Era: Revolutionizing Basketball
Pat Riley Statue Lakers
Riley introduced a fast-paced, exciting style of basketball known as “Showtime”, characterized by quick transitions, no-look passes, and star chemistry between Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy.
From 1982 to 1988, Riley led the Lakers to four NBA championships and guided a team that appeared in nine NBA Finals throughout the 1980s, cementing the Lakers as a true dynasty.
Statistics and Dominance Pat Riley Statue Lakers
- Coaching record: 533-194
- Multiple 60-win seasons
- Revolutionized NBA entertainment and style
Style, Leadership, and Cultural Impact
Riley wasn’t just a coach—he became a cultural icon. His slicked-back hair, sharp suits, and commanding speeches became symbols of discipline, glamour, and excellence.
The Lakers transformed into a global basketball brand, and “Showtime” became a philosophy blending substance with style, which still influences the franchise today.
The Historic Rivalry with the Boston Celtics
Choosing the Celtics game for the statue unveiling was intentional. Riley’s Lakers faced Boston multiple times in the NBA Finals, producing historic and unforgettable moments, including the 1985 Finals victory in Boston, which broke the Lakers’ long-standing jinx.
Why the Celtics Game Matters Pat Riley Statue Lakers
- Highlights Riley’s legendary Finals battles
- Connects modern fans to Lakers’ storied history
- Enhances the drama of the statue unveiling
Joining the Legends at Star Plaza
Riley will be the first Lakers coach to receive a statue at Star Plaza, joining legends such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, and Chick Hearn.
This honor recognizes Riley’s influence on the Lakers’ philosophy, player development, and long-term franchise success.