It is important for us to see that our mentors are human and therefore fallible; it makes our own shortcomings more tenable.

One of my constant reminders was, "End practice on a happy note." I wanted the boys to want to come out to practice, and I wanted them to get a certain amount of pleasure out of basketball. It's a game. It should be fun. So I always tried to counterbalance any criticism in practice with a bit of praise. I wanted my players to feel that the worst punishment I could give them was to deny them the privilege of practicing. If they did not want to practice, I did not want them there.

Intensity makes you stronger. Emotionalism makes you weaker.

Always think of passing the ball before shooting it.

Never confuse activity with accomplishment.

Real wealth comes to the person who learns that we are paid best for the things we do for nothing.

The life lessons taught by John Wooden have become legend. Here's a collection of some of the greatest 'Woodenisms.'