Sparks to unveil Lisa Leslie statue at Crypto.com Arena

The Los Angeles Sparks will honor Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie with a statue in Star Plaza at Crypto.com Arena.

The team announced plans Thursday for a Sept. 20 ceremony ahead of its home game against Portland.

Leslie, 53, joins the Seattle Storm's Sue Bird as just the second WNBA player so honored by her franchise.

"To be cemented in Los Angeles, the city that raised me, I couldn't be more proud to be a role model forever!" Leslie said. "God has blessed me and I have truly given my all to this sport and our community. I am thankful to my coaches, teammates, incredible fans, and, most importantly, my family and friends. As the saying goes, 'The wolf is only as strong as the pack,' and I've been fortunate to have an amazing pack supporting me every step of the way."

An eight-time All-Star center, three-time MVP and two-time WNBA champion, Leslie played for the Sparks from 1997-2009 and remains the franchise's all-time leader in points, rebounds, blocks and games. She ranks second in assists and steals.

The first player in WNBA history to dunk in a game, Leslie had her No. 9 jersey retired by the team in 2010 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. She also won four straight Olympic gold medals with Team USA from 1996-2008.

Leslie's statue will join those of 15 other sports legends outside the arena, including former Los Angeles Lakers star and current Sparks co-owner Earvin "Magic" Johnson.

"I've known Lisa for nearly three decades and believe that she is beyond deserving of this incredible honor," Johnson said. "She was the driving force behind bringing back-to-back championships to the Los Angeles Sparks franchise in 2000 and 2001, and Lisa's hard work and commitment has made her one of the best to ever play the game.?Lisa's legacy isn't just measured by championships and accolades, though; it's defined by the doors she opened and the standard she set for generations to come.

"More than an athlete, she is a pioneer, a cultural icon and a force who elevated women's basketball to new heights. This statue celebrates her excellence, her leadership and the future she helped create, and it ensures her impact will forever be part of the fabric of this city."

--Field Level Media