John Wooden was an American basketball player and head coach at the University of California, Los Angeles. He is best known for his amazing success as a coach, winning ten NCAA national championships at UCLA, including seven consecutive titles. Wooden is often called the “Wizard of Westwood” and is recognized as one of the greatest coaches in sports history.
Personal and Family Life
John Wooden was born on October 14, 1910, in Hall, Indiana. He married Nellie Charlotte Riley on August 8, 1932, and they had two children together. Sadly, Nellie passed away on March 21, 1985. Wooden’s family life was important to him, and he often emphasized the values of hard work and integrity in both sports and personal relationships.
Career Highlights
Wooden had a remarkable coaching career that began at UCLA, where he led the team to incredible victories and set several records. His teams won a total of 88 consecutive games and he was honored with the Henry Iba Award as national coach of the year a record seven times. His coaching philosophy, including his “Pyramid of Success,” has influenced many athletes and leaders beyond basketball.
Death and Legacy
John Wooden passed away on June 4, 2010, in Los Angeles, California, due to natural causes. He left behind a lasting legacy not only in basketball but also in personal development and leadership. His principles continue to inspire coaches and players, as well as business leaders around the world.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Man in the Glass: Dale Brown Story | 2012-05-08 | Himself |
| Basketball: A Love Story | 2018-09-18 | Self (archive footage) |