As the Kansas City Chiefs gear up for Super Bowl 59, an unlikely figure in the basketball world is set to benefit significantly—Pat Riley. The legendary NBA executive and former coach of the Miami Heat has a financial stake in the Chiefs’ potential three-peat victory, thanks to a trademark he secured decades ago.
The Origins of Riley’s ‘Three-Peat’ Trademark
Pat Riley first coined and trademarked the term “Three-Peat” in the late 1980s while coaching the Los Angeles Lakers. The phrase was intended to commemorate the Lakers’ bid to win three consecutive NBA championships. Although the Lakers fell short, Riley maintained ownership of the trademark and has profited from its use in sports merchandise, marketing, and media ever since.
Over the years, whenever a professional sports team approaches the rare feat of winning three championships in a row, Riley’s company, Riles & Co., cashes in on royalties and licensing deals for the phrase. This has applied to the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, the New York Yankees in Major League Baseball, and now, potentially, the Kansas City Chiefs.
What a Chiefs Three-Peat Means for Riley
If the Chiefs defeat their opponent in Super Bowl 59 and officially complete their three-peat, sales of merchandise bearing the term “Three-Peat” are expected to skyrocket. This includes T-shirts, hats, memorabilia, and even official NFL content using the phrase. Since Riley holds the trademark rights, his company will receive a cut of all revenue generated from its use.
While exact financial figures remain undisclosed, previous estimates suggest that Riley has earned millions from past teams using the phrase. With the NFL’s massive global audience and Kansas City’s loyal fanbase, a Chiefs three-peat could mean one of the biggest paydays yet for Riley.
Chiefs’ Road to the Three-Peat
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, have already secured back-to-back Super Bowl victories. A third consecutive championship would make them the first NFL team in history to achieve the feat, cementing their dynasty status.
However, the road to glory won’t be easy. The team has faced fierce competition throughout the season, and their Super Bowl 59 opponent will undoubtedly put up a strong fight. If they can overcome this final challenge, they won’t just make history for the NFL—they’ll also help Pat Riley add another lucrative chapter to his legendary career.
Conclusion
While the Kansas City Chiefs focus on securing their place in NFL history, Pat Riley will be watching closely from the sidelines—both as a fan of greatness and as a businessman set to profit from their potential success. If Mahomes and company pull off the three-peat, expect Riley to celebrate just as much as Chiefs Kingdom, albeit for very different reasons.
