When it comes to the greatest coaches in the history of the NBA, names like Phil Jackson, Red Auerbach, and Gregg Popovich are brought up quickly, and rightfully so. But very few could match the early success that Pat Riley experienced when he took over the Los Angeles Lakers.
Taking over 11 games into the 1981-82 season, Riley would lead the team to a championship in his first season. He would go on to win at least 54 games in each of the following eight full seasons he was at the helm in Los Angeles.
Along the way he would set some records, including on March 9, 1988.