Overview
- The bronze statue was unveiled outside Crypto.com Arena during a pregame ceremony at 12:30 p.m. PT, broadcast live on Spectrum SportsNet and Spectrum SportsNet+.
- Riley is the first Lakers coach to receive a statue, which becomes the 15th monument outside the arena.
- As head coach from 1981 to 1990, he guided Los Angeles to seven NBA Finals and championships in 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988, defining the franchise’s Showtime era.
- Riley, 80, now serves as Miami Heat president, and the Heat previously named their home court in his honor.
- Lakers governor Jeanie Buss lauded his central role in team history, current coach JJ Redick praised his coaching standard, and former players shared memories of his demanding leadership.