In a rare moment of reflection, legendary NBA coach and executive Pat Riley has shared his deep admiration for former Los Angeles Lakers star James Worthy, calling him one of the best small forwards to ever play the game. Riley, who coached the Lakers during the 1980s, referred to Worthy’s talents as unparalleled, emphasizing that no other small forward could match his level of excellence, particularly during his prime. Despite Worthy’s quiet and reserved nature off the court, Riley believes that many fans and analysts failed to fully appreciate the magnitude of his skillset and his contributions to the Lakers’ success.
James Worthy, often overshadowed by the bigger personalities on the Lakers roster, including Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, was the cornerstone of the team’s success in the 1980s, earning the nickname “Big Game James” for his clutch performances in the biggest moments. Worthy was known for his exceptional athleticism, scoring ability, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations, most notably during the Lakers’ championship runs. His blend of speed, agility, and basketball IQ made him a dominant force on both ends of the floor, and Riley’s comments reaffirm that Worthy was the driving force behind much of the team’s success.
Riley went on to acknowledge that Worthy’s humble demeanor might have contributed to the lack of recognition he deserved. Unlike some of his more vocal teammates, Worthy often let his play do the talking. His contributions were sometimes understated, but his impact on the court was undeniable. Riley, however, doesn’t hesitate to place him among the greatest small forwards in NBA history, suggesting that even in a league filled with talent, there may never be another player like Worthy. The respect Riley has for him is evident, with the coach recalling how vital Worthy was to the team’s success, particularly during the Lakers’ five NBA championships in the 1980s.
Worthy’s influence stretched beyond just his scoring prowess. He was a key component of the Lakers’ fast-break offense, a system that was revolutionized by Riley. His ability to run the floor and finish in transition made him a perfect fit for the “Showtime” era of Lakers basketball, which was built on speed and high-scoring games. His spectacular performances in the 1988 Finals, where he was named Finals MVP, are a testament to his ability to rise to the occasion. Despite not always receiving the attention he deserved, Worthy’s contributions were integral to the Lakers’ dynasty.
In reflecting on Worthy’s legacy, Pat Riley’s comments highlight a sentiment that has been shared by many within the basketball community: James Worthy was one of the most complete players of his era. While his quieter personality may have led to him being overlooked at times, his place in NBA history as one of the greatest small forwards of all time remains firmly secured. For those who truly watched him play, Worthy’s brilliance was clear—and as Riley rightly points out, there may never be another player like him.