Since joining the Miami Heat in 1995, Pat Riley has become an integral figure in the organization. Throughout his tenure, Riley has served in two pivotal roles, first as the team’s head coach and later as the team president.
On Monday, the Heat made a significant announcement via their official X page, revealing plans to honor Riley’s legacy. In recognition of his decades of service, the court at the Kaseya Center will officially bear his name.
“From now on we’ll be playing on “Pat Riley Court at Kaseya Center.” We’ll be dedicating our court and honoring Pat on Opening Night as he goes into his 30th season,” the post read.
Riley’s journey with the Heat began as a head coach. He continued as head coach for 11 seasons between 1995 and 2003 and again from 2005 to 2008. During his time coaching the team, he guided them to eight playoff appearances and led them to the NBA championship in 2006.
After taking on the role of team president, he sealed some of the most significant moves in the team’s history, including building the squad that went on to win back-to-back NBA titles in 2012 and 2013.
Pat Riley Thanks Heat Family As Court Naming Honors His 30-Year Legacy
After learning about the Miami Heat’s decision to name the court at the Kaseya Center after him, Pat Riley expressed deep gratitude to the team’s managing general partner, Micky Arison, and the entire Arison family. The Heat president shared his heartfelt appreciation for the recognition in a statement.
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“This has been one hell of a journey that Micky and I have taken together over the last 30 years. Naming the court after me would have made my parents very proud. It is a great honor for myself, Chris, and my family,” Riley said.
“I can only say thank you from the bottom of my heart and the Arison family for this honor. And to all the players, coaches, staff, and super fans,” he added. Riley’s contribution to the Heat will officially be celebrated on October 23, when the Heat unveil the court during their game against the Orlando Magic at Kaseya Center.
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