The LA Sparks announced plans to honor Hall of Fame center Lisa Leslie with a statue outside Crypto.com Arena. She becomes just the second player in WNBA history to receive such recognition from a former franchise.
"To be cemented in Los Angeles, the city that raised me, I couldn't be more proud," Leslie said in a team statement. "God has blessed me and I have truly given my all to this sport and our community."
Lisa Leslie spent her entire 12-year career with the Sparks after joining the league at its 1997 inception. The eight-time All-Star led LA to back-to-back championships in 2001 and 2002, earning three MVP awards and four Olympic gold medals during her playing career.
Leslie holds the Sparks' all-time records in points, rebounds, blocks, field goals, free throws, minutes, and games. She ranks third in WNBA history in double-doubles and blocks, while sitting sixth in rebounds, ninth in offensive rebounds, and 13th in scoring. Her eight First Team All-WNBA selections rank second all-time.
Leslie made history as the first player to dunk during a WNBA game. The move single-handedly helped redefine women's basketball on its biggest stage.
After retiring in 2009, Leslie built a successful broadcasting and media career. The Sparks retired her No. 9 jersey in 2010.
Lisa Leslie Statue Joins Crypto.com Arena Sports Legends
Leslie joins 15 other sports legends honored outside Crypto.com Arena, including Lakers greats Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaquille O'Neal.
"Lisa's legacy isn't just measured by championships and accolades," said Johnson. "She is a pioneer, a cultural icon, and a force who elevated women's basketball to new heights."
Sculptors Julie Rotblatt Amrany and Omri Amrany are behind the piece. The ceremony takes place September 20th, before the Sparks host 2026 WNBA expansion side Portland.
