As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to face off against their storied rivals, the Boston Celtics, they’re taking a moment to honor a legend. Before the game, the Lakers will unveil a statue of former head coach Pat Riley outside Crypto.com Arena, celebrating his indelible impact on the franchise.
While many fans recognize Riley as the mastermind behind the Miami Heat's success, his roots run deep with the Lakers. Riley began his coaching journey as an assistant during the 1979-80 season, helping the team clinch their first championship of the decade. By November 1981, he had taken the helm as head coach, steering the Showtime Lakers to four more titles and cementing his legacy.
Current Lakers coach JJ Redick shared his admiration for Riley, reflecting on the influence Riley's teams had on him growing up.
“I grew up watching 90s basketball, especially those tough, physical Knicks and Heat teams,” Redick noted. “I played against Riles in Orlando, and his impact is undeniable.
The consistency and culture he established in Miami are legendary. I wish I could’ve witnessed 1980s basketball firsthand, but Riley’s achievements with the Lakers set a benchmark for all coaches.”
Redick, hired by the Lakers in the 2024 offseason, was seen as a promising, Riley-like figure. His tenure has been impressive, with the Lakers holding a 34-21 record and sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference, tied with the fourth-place Houston Rockets.
Redick has instilled a sense of purpose and discipline, emphasizing attention to detail and a data-driven coaching style reminiscent of Riley's approach during his time in Los Angeles. The Lakers are hoping to channel some of that Showtime magic as they continue their season.