John R. Wooden

John Wooden’s UCLA teams scaled unmatched heights that no future organization in any sport is likely to approach. Under Wooden’s masterful guidance, the Bruins set all-time records including four perfect 30-0 seasons, 88 consecutive victories, 38 straight NCAA tournament victories, and ten national championships, including seven in a row. Wooden’s approach rested on the idea that basketball is a game of threes: forward, guard, center; shoot, drive, pass; ball, you, man; conditioning, skill, teamwork. Considered one of basketball’s finest teachers, his ability to instill these principles in his players made Wooden a master of developing talent. Wooden’s famous Pyramid of Success shows the influence of his mentor from his days at Purdue, Hall of Fame coach Ward Lambert. The Pyramid’s principles are the basis of Wooden’s outlook on life and explain much of his success on and off the court. Whatever the measure, John Wooden was one of the greatest coaches in history.