John Wooden

I have been remiss in not talking about the passing of John Wooden. I deeply admire Coach Wooden and his philosophies about basketball and life. I'm currently reading his book Practical Modern Basketball and with every chapter I realize the expansiveness of his knowledge.

Wooden believe in preparing his team for competition by focusing on their play rather than anticipating and being concerned with the opposition's strategy. He had three main concerns: that his team was sound fundamentally, his players in high condition, and having proper team spirit. Although he simplifies for the book, I believe it to be accurate and true.

I also deeply admire the level of detail Coach Wooden had in running his program. From lessons on socks to a minute by minute travel schedule, Coach Wooden contemplated every angle in the his attempt for success. Nothing was left to chance, everything happened for a reason.

There are very few coaches like John Wooden. I feel lucky to have a chance to learn from him, although I would have loved to see him in action.