Lisa Leslie Honored With Statue at Crypto.com Arena

Get ready to celebrate a true basketball icon! Lisa Leslie is making history once again, becoming the first WNBA player to receive a statue outside the prestigious Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. This incredible honor places her among the city’s most revered sports legends.

Joining LA’s Elite Sports Figures

The two-time WNBA champion, four-time Olympic gold medalist, and Hall of Famer will be immortalized in bronze, joining the ranks of Lakers greats like Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal. She’ll also stand alongside NHL stars and boxing champion Oscar De La Hoya. The statue dedication ceremony is scheduled for September 20, 2026, at Star Plaza.

Leslie, who spent her entire career with the Los Angeles Sparks, expressed immense pride in being honored in the city that raised her. “To be cemented in Los Angeles, the city that raised me, I couldn’t be more proud to be a role model forever!” she shared. She also extended gratitude to her coaches, teammates, fans, and loved ones for their unwavering support.

A Legacy of Excellence and Firsts

Throughout her illustrious career with the Sparks, Leslie achieved remarkable success, including two championships (2001, 2002) and two Finals MVP awards. She was an eight-time All-Star and remains a leader in many statistical categories for the team. Notably, she was the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game, a feat that continues to inspire.

After retiring in 2009, her #9 jersey was retired the following year, and she was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. Sue Bird of the Seattle Storm is the only other WNBA player with a statue outside an arena, located at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena.

Pioneering the Future of Women’s Basketball

Fellow Lakers legend Magic Johnson praised Leslie’s impact, stating, “Lisa’s legacy isn’t just measured by championships and accolades… it’s defined by the doors she opened and the standard she set for generations to come.” He recognized her as a pioneer and a cultural icon who elevated women’s basketball. This statue is a testament to her enduring influence on the sport and the city of Los Angeles.