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NBA Legend in Disbelief Over Lakers Honor

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Christian Alamodin | Last updated Feb 22, 2026 9:59 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have had their share of larger-than-life coaches as one of the winningest teams in NBA history. From Fred Schaus to Phil Jackson, the Lakers' sideline have seen brilliant coaches that added to the Purple and Gold's impressive 17 championships.

Pat Riley is one of the most iconic figures in Lakers lore for his leadership over the Showtime Lakers. Riley played five-and-a-half seasons for the Purple and Gold before becoming one of its most iconic coaches. He led the Lakers to four championships and a 73% win rate during his nine years in Tinseltown. More importantly, he maximized the talents of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, helping the former become the Hall of Fame point guard he is today.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach Pat Riley on the sideline against the Miami Heat at Miami Arena during the 1988-89 season.RVR Photos-Imagn Images

While he's more known nowadays for his involvement with the Miami Heat, the Lakers never forgot his contributions and decided to build him a statue alongside other Laker greats. The former head coach got honest with his feelings over the distinction.

Pat Riley Is Honored to Be Included in Lakers' Star Plaza

Riley's statue was unveiled on February 22, with Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar, Dwyane Wade, and Lakers acting owner Jeanie Buss accompanying him on stage.

The 80-year-old head coach was beyond flattered that he is the eighth Laker to be immortalized on the Lakers' Star Plaza.

"I don't know how I got here, but I got here and now there's a statue out there," Riley explained, per ESPN's Dave McMenamin. "And I'm so grateful. I really am. It's beyond gratitude. I'm so grateful to be honored and to be with those who are the giants that I jumped up on their shoulders and they carried me. They did it. And here I am today."

Elgin Baylor, Kobe Bryant , Chick Hearn, Shaquille O'Neal, Jerry West, Johnson and Abdul-Jabbar are the other Lakers with statues on the Star Plaza.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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