Learn languages naturally with fresh, real content!

tap to translate recording

Explore By Region

flag The Lakers honored Pat Riley with a statue for his role in building their 1980s championship dynasty.

flag The Los Angeles Lakers unveiled a bronze statue of former coach Pat Riley outside Crypto.com Arena, honoring his role in building the 1980s "Showtime" dynasty. flag Riley, who coached the team from 1981 to 1990, led them to four NBA championships, seven Finals appearances, and a .733 winning percentage, the best in franchise history. flag The nearly 8-foot statue depicts him in a signature Armani suit, fist raised—a gesture symbolizing his directive to "Get the ball to the Big Fella," referencing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. flag Now 80 and serving as president of the Miami Heat, Riley also won a title there and played on the Lakers’ 1972 championship team. flag The tribute, part of a series honoring Lakers legends, was celebrated by teammates, executives, and players like Magic Johnson and Dwyane Wade, who praised his leadership, discipline, and lasting impact on basketball culture.

32 Articles