Not long after the Miami Heat honored former head coach and longtime executive Pat Riley by naming their Kaseya Center court after him, the Los Angeles Lakers announced Monday that they would build a statue for Riley, who won six titles as a player and coach with the organization.
Legendary point guard Magic Johnson–arguably the greatest ever at his position–had strong words for Riley following the announcement. Johnson, who played under Riley throughout his entire nine-year tenure as Lakers head coach, stated Monday that Riley was the “greatest coach to ever grace the NBA!”
There’s no denying Riley’s greatness, winning five NBA Titles as head coach, including four with Los Angeles from 1981-90. He’s second in Lakers franchise history in regular season wins (533) and playoff wins (102), trailing only Phil Jackson, who won 610 games and 102 postseason games with the franchise, respectively.
After all, there’s no showtime Lakers without Riley. Magic Johnson became an all-time great under Riley’s guidance, in addition to Hall of Famers Michael Cooper and James Worthy.
For his coaching career, Riley is 1210-694 (.636) and 171-111 (.606) in the postseason, owning seven 60-win seasons and 17 50-win seasons. His 1,210 wins are the fifth-most all-time while his 171 postseason wins are second. In addition to his five championships, the former head coach won nine conference titles while finishing below .500 just thrice. That’s uncanny.
Riley, who retired from coaching after the 2008-09 season, was a master motivator and an excellent tactician in his time. He was relentless with his tactics, making him one of the most well-respected voices in league history. When he talks, you listen. The 79-year-old still isn’t afraid to ruffle a few feathers if he needs to today, but that’s part of what made him an excellent head coach.
Of course, there are plenty of great head coaches throughout league history, including current Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, who succeeded Riley. Jackson, Gregg Popovich and Red Auerbach, to name a few.
Who do you think is the greatest coach ever? Let us know in the comments below!
***
To check out our other content, click here.
Follow Hot Hot Hoops on Twitter/X here!
Follow Hot Hot Hoops on Instagram here!
Subscribe to our YouTube channel here!