Seattle Celebrates Lenny Wilkens With Statue Unveiling
The City Honors a Basketball Icon and Looks Ahead
Seattle recently celebrated the legacy of basketball legend Lenny Wilkens. A statue was unveiled outside Climate Pledge Arena to honor his contributions as a player, coach, and executive, a moment that resonated deeply within the community he has served for decades.
A Community Icon Honored
Seattle acknowledged Lenny Wilkens‘s impact by erecting a statue outside Climate Pledge Arena. This location stands where the Seattle Center Coliseum, once home to the Sonics, used to be. Wilkens, who joined the Sonics in 1968, embodies the city’s spirit.
Wilkens has earned recognition from the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame twice. He was inducted as a player in 1989 and as a coach in 1998. He also was part of the 1992 “Dream Team” as an assistant coach.
Although Wilkens played and coached for several teams, Seattle remains central to his identity. He led the Sonics to their only championship in 1979, leaving an indelible mark.
“Reminds me of when I first came out here. You know, we’re a better community when we’re supportive of one another, when we help each other, when we take time to recognize one another.”
—Lenny Wilkens
Wilkens‘ impact extends beyond the court. Through his foundation, created in 1971, he has tirelessly supported local causes. His focus has been on the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic, which serves Seattle’s Central District.
Bob Ferguson, the Washington Governor, mentioned Wilkens‘s impact. He stated, “He has uplifted this community in many ways.” His work extends from uniting the community during the 1979 championship to his behind-the-scenes efforts to help the next generation.
Jay Inslee, Ferguson’s predecessor, quipped that Wilkens did not just “unleash ‘Downtown’ Freddy Brown.” He “unleashed ‘Uptown’ Odessa Brown Clinic.”
Legacy of Giving Back
Wilkens’ commitment to charitable work has inspired Seattle’s basketball community. Steve Smith, who played for Wilkens with the Atlanta Hawks, highlighted his influence on the values of giving back. Detlef Schrempf, a former Sonics forward, mentioned their shared work in their foundations.
Nate McMillan, who, like Wilkens, played and coached in Seattle, emphasized Wilkens‘ role. He said he “set the standard for what a SuperSonic should be both on and off the floor.”
Wilkens‘ statue is the first at Climate Pledge Arena. He is expected to be joined soon by Sue Bird. She will be honored with her statue on August 17 during the Storm’s game.
“Coach Wilkens is what Jerry West was to the Lakers and the NBA. He is what Bill Russell was to the Boston Celtics and the NBA. He’s what Michael Jordan is to the Chicago Bulls and the NBA. This is our Hall of Famer.”
—Nate McMillan
The statue was created by sculptor Lou Cella, who has also created statues of other Seattle sports icons. However, Spencer Haywood highlighted a minor issue. The statue depicts Wilkens driving right, even though he was famous for his left-handed drives.
Future Sonics?
The unveiling of Wilkens‘ statue coincided with the NBA commissioner’s statement about potentially expanding the league. The Board of Governors will address expansion at their next meeting in Las Vegas.
With this, the enthusiasm for the possible return of the Sonics is very high. According to a 2024 report, the Seattle SuperSonics have the 6th-highest winning percentage in NBA history, 50.2%. (Basketball-Reference).
McMillan expressed his hope the NBA is watching. He noted the rich tradition surrounding the Sonics, with Wilkens a key part of that legacy.
