The Los Angeles Lakers have announced a major tribute to legendary head coach Pat Riley, commissioning a statue to be placed outside Crypto.com Arena.

The decision was made to honor Riley’s significant impact on the team, particularly during the "Showtime" era of the 1980s, when his leadership helped guide the Lakers to four NBA championships.

The statue, which will stand in Star Plaza, will commemorate Riley’s crucial role in shaping the Lakers’ success. Riley not only won championships as a coach, but also as a player and assistant coach with the team.

As head coach from 1981 to 1990, Riley helped transform the Lakers into one of the most dynamic teams in NBA history. Under his guidance, the team boasted a 533-194 record in the regular season, including 102 playoff victories.

Miami Heat team president Pat Riley.

Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Riley will become the eighth Lakers legend to be honored with a statue at Star Plaza, following in the footsteps of greats like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal.

The statue announcement, shared by The Athletic reporter Jovan Buha, was revealed during a video call with former Lakers stars, including Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and others from the iconic Showtime era.

On X, Magic Johnson, who played under Riley's tutelage for many years, expressed his excitement for the Lakers icon’s recognition.

“Congratulations to, in my opinion, the greatest coach to ever grace the NBA," Johnson exclaimed. "All of his Showtime players are thrilled to see this well-deserved statue come to life!"

Riley's leadership and accomplishments are a big part of the Lakers' legacy, and this statue will serve as a permanent reminder of his remarkable impact on the franchise and the sport.

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