John Wooden, the greatest basketball coach of all time, has passed away. The first player ever enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and coach, his pyramid of success and dedication to teaching affected all who came in contact with him.
Wooden won with great players like Alcindor and Walton and he won with lesser players like his 1971 team. His 10 national championships may never be equaled by another coach.
He could have had an earlier championship but refused to play in the NAIB tournament because they banned black players.
Here is the 7 point creed given to him by his father upon graduation:
- Be true to yourself.
- Make each day your masterpiece.
- Help others.
- Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
- Make friendship a fine art.
- Build a shelter against a rainy day.
- Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.
His UCLA teams had four perfect 30-0 seasons and an 88 game winning streak.
He was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003. He was one of very few people to hit a hole in one and a double eagle in the same round of golf, a feat he pulled off in 1947.
John Wooden was the classiest human being in the world and an inspiration to me all my life. He will be sorely missed by all Bruin faithful.
