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17h ago

Sparks to Unveil Lisa Leslie Statue at Crypto.com Arena on Sept. 20

The honor underscores growing recognition of WNBA pioneers.

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Lisa Leslie #9 of the Los Angeles Sparks celebrates after a win against the Houston Comets at Staples Center July 18, 1999 in Los Angeles, CA. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1999 NBAE (Photo by Robert Mora/NBAE via Getty Images)
Jul 20, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Former basketball player Lisa Leslie arrives at the Red Carpet for the 2022 ESPY at Dolby Theater. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports/ File Photo

Overview

  • The Sparks, which announced the tribute Thursday, set the unveiling for Sept. 20 before a home game against the Portland Fire in Star Plaza outside Crypto.com Arena.
  • Leslie becomes only the second WNBA player with a franchise statue, joining Seattle Storm legend Sue Bird, and the first from the Sparks.
  • The bronze will be created by renowned sports sculptors Julie Rotblatt Amrany and Omri Amrany and will stand alongside figures of Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal.
  • Leslie called the recognition a prideful moment for the city that raised her, and co-owner Magic Johnson praised her as a pioneer whose influence lifted women’s basketball.
  • A longtime concept first reported in 2019 and slowed by the pandemic, the plan is now set, with the team saying more details on the ceremony and fan events will follow.