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As the Boston Celtics paid a visit to the Los Angeles Lakers, the home team took the chance to honor Miami Heat President,Pat Riley.
With Riley reaching legendary status within the Lakers’ organization, the former head coach earned himself a statue in Los Angeles, which was unveiled on Sunday, February 22.
At halftime, Riley was honored at center court at Crypto.com Arena. Both teams were in the locker room, as usual, but LeBron James decided to stay out and watch the ceremony take place. His decision to do so left Miami Heat fans speculating.
Miami Heat Fans React To LeBron James’ Support For Pat Riley
via @PurpGolded: LeBron not in the locker room for the halftime. He’s out on the court for Pat Riley’s statue ceremony
LeBron not in the locker room for the halftime
He’s out on the court for Pat Riley’s statue ceremony 👀
Before the game tipped off, Riley and LeBron briefly met for a hug and a quick exchange of words. Considering James had a playing stint with the Miami Heat, his support for Riley doesn’t come as a surprise.
However, James’ uncertain future makes many fans wonder.
“Pat Riley did say he’d leave ‘shiny key under that mat’ for LeBron James if he wanted to return to Miami Heat,” a popular Heat fan account said on X.
“He’s recruiting him back,” a fan wrote. “A reunion in Miami next season would be cool,” another added.
Riley has been a part of the Heat’s organization since 1995. He was the first executive to lure LeBron James away from the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 2010, James’ decision to leave Cleveland for Miami was one of the most memorable moments in sports history.
James left the Heat in 2014. Some Miami fans aren’t totally open to a reunion with the four-time MVP. Others would clearly embrace the move.
“26/27 one last dance. Please,” one fan said on X. “Admin, you know what this means,” another said, suggesting that the reunion could take place for the 2026-2027 season.
What Does The Future Hold For LeBron James?
GettyLeBron James with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The basketball world is waiting for the next big decision from the league’s top scorer in history. His contract with the Lakers is expiring at the end of the season. The LeBron-Lakers pairing has been questioned more than ever as the 2025-2026 season plays out.
Retirement isn’t ruled out for James. Neither is playing for another team. While all signs point to the Cleveland Cavaliers as a potential landing spot for James if a deal with the Lakers doesn’t come to life, the Heat are always wild cards in the market for notable names.
James is a much different player compared to his Miami days. At the time, LeBron was winning back-to-back MVPs. He wrapped up his four-year career with the Heat, averaging 26.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists.
Still, James is playing at a high level. Through 37 games this season, LeBron has averaged 21.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game.
Does Pat Riley have it in him to successfully lure LeBron back for a last dance? The hoops world will get clarity on LeBron soon enough.
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