Los Angeles Sparks have announced that Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie will receive a statue in Star Plaza outside Crypto.com Arena, honouring her remarkable career.
Lisa Leslie, the iconic 53-year-old former Los Angeles Sparks star, has been chosen to be immortalised with a statue at the arena where she spent much of her illustrious basketball career. The ceremony is scheduled for September 20th, ahead of the Sparks' home game against Portland. This honour marks only the second time in WNBA history that a player's team has erected a statue for them, following Seattle Storm legend Sue Bird.
In a statement, Leslie expressed her gratitude and pride at being recognised: "To be cemented in Los Angeles, the city that raised me, I couldn't be more proud to be a role model forever!" She added, "God has blessed me and I have truly given my all to this sport and our community. I am thankful to my coaches, teammates, incredible fans, and, most importantly, my family and friends."
Leslie's career with the Sparks from 1997 to 2009 was a remarkable one. She became an eight-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and two-time WNBA champion. Her No. 9 jersey has been retired by the team, and she was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. Leslie also won four consecutive Olympic gold medals with Team USA between 1996 and 2008.
The Los Angeles Sparks co-owner Earvin "Magic" Johnson praised her legacy: "Lisa Leslie is a true legend, not just for the Sparks but for women's basketball as a whole."
This statue will serve as a lasting tribute to Lisa Leslie's remarkable achievements in both the WNBA and international competitions. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball, making this honour well-deserved and fitting.
