Key Takeaways
- Pat and Chris met in 1967 when he was 22 years old and had just entered the NBA draft.
- Chris pursued a career as a licensed therapist specializing in marriage counseling in Los Angeles.
- The couple’s family grew when they adopted James Patrick and Elisabeth Marie Riley.
Pat Riley, a legendary figure in NBA history, has been in a long-lasting marriage with his wife, Chris Rodstrom, since they tied the knot on June 26, 1970, marking over five decades of their enduring relationship.
The two reportedly first met in 1967, when Pat was 22 years old and had just been drafted as the seventh overall pick in the 1967 NBA Draft by the San Diego Rockets.
Throughout the years, Chris has been a constant source of support, standing by Pat through the highs and lows of his remarkable career.
Pat Riley, known for his coaching successes with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat, often credits his wife for being his emotional backbone.
Despite the challenges he faced throughout his career, Chris remained unwavering in her support, always by his side.
The couple expanded their family by adopting two children – James Patrick Riley, adopted in 1985, and Elisabeth Marie Riley, adopted in 1989.
Both children have led private lives, staying away from the media spotlight that often surrounds their father’s fame.
As of 2024, Pat and Chris reside in Miami, Florida, where Pat continues to work with the Miami Heat as an executive.
He focuses on her family and engages in charitable endeavors while maintaining her preference for a more private life.
Chris Rodstrom: A Licensed Therapist and Wife of NBA Icon Pat Riley
Chris Rodstrom was born in 1951 in San Diego, California, USA, making her 73 years old as of now, and she is six years younger than her husband, Pat Riley.
Coming from a healthcare background, Chris’s mother, Dorothy, worked as a nurse and dedicated much of her life to helping alcoholics.
While limited information exists about her father and siblings, her family background influenced her passion for helping others.
Chris completed her early education in her hometown and later attended the University of San Diego, where she obtained her first degree in the 1960s.
She further pursued her education and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from California State University, solidifying her foundation for a successful career in counseling.
Chris built a thriving career as a licensed therapist and marriage counselor in Los Angeles. There, she worked with individuals and couples, helping them navigate personal and relationship challenges.
She became well-regarded for her expertise in counseling and psychological assessments.
Despite her husband’s growing fame in the NBA, Chris remained committed to her profession until she decided to retire in 1981 to focus on supporting Pat as his coaching career took off.
Her decision to step back was pivotal in Pat’s success, as she provided crucial emotional and personal support during his rise to becoming one of the most successful coaches in NBA history.
While Pat became a prominent figure in the sports world, Chris preferred to keep a low profile, rarely engaging with media or public events unless it was to support her husband.
Despite her status as a celebrity spouse, she maintained a private life, focusing on her family and philanthropic endeavors.
Together with Pat, Chris has been involved in various charitable causes, reflecting their shared commitment to giving back to the community.
Now centered on family and philanthropy, Chris stands as a pillar of strength beside her legendary husband.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Pat Riley was born on March 20, 1945, in Rome, New York, to parents Mary Rosalia (Balloga) and Leon Riley.
- He played professionally for the San Diego Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns from 1967 to 1976.
- He has won five NBA championships as a head coach, securing four with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s Showtime era and one with the Miami Heat in 2006.
