MIAMI - Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava congratulated Miami Heat team president Pat Riley on his 30th year with the organization on Wednesday.
"Pat, you didn't just bring the Heat, you are the Heat. From building dynasties to turning Miami into a basketball powerhouse, your legacy is legendary," Levine Cava said in a video message. "Your leadership, vision, and dedication have built a culture of excellence that goes far beyond the game. Here's to 30 more years of greatness Miami style."
Riley joined the Heat as its head coach in 1995 after four seasons with the New York Knicks. Previously, Riley coached the Los Angeles Lakers to four NBA championships in the 1980s.
In 11 seasons with the Heat over two stints, Riley compiled a 494-395 record and won the 2006 NBA championship. He also was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1997 for the third time, winning once each with the Lakers, Knicks and Heat.
As team president, Riley oversaw back-to-back NBA championships in 2012 and 2013 under current Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra. Riley's coaching accolades and executive leadership helped earn an induction to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008.
"Congratulations to Pat Riley on 30 iconic years with the Miami Heat. His legacy is now etched in history with the unveiling of Pat Riley Court at the Kaseya Center," Levine Cava added in the post.
