Kareem Abdul-Jabbar explores his 50-year friendship with Coach John Wooden, one of the most enduring and meaningful relationships in sports history.
In 1965, 18-year old Lew Alcindor played basketball for Coach John Wooden at UCLA. It was the beginning of what was to become a 50-year long relationship. On the court they broke basketball records. Off the court they transcended their athletic achievements to gain even wider recognition and tremendous national respect.
Part memoir and part inspirational story, Abdul-Jabbar reveals the lessons Coach Wooden taught him through the “Pyramid of Success” and discusses how they in turn shaped his life. Through beautiful storytelling, Coach Wooden and Me takes you back to the basics of what a coach should be.
Great book about a great, long lasting relationship! I bought this book after hearing Kareem discuss it on the radio. I wasn’t disappointed! It is very well written, flows nicely and offers many insights into Coach Wooden and Kareem lives. They came from different parts of the country but bonded through shared philosophies and principles. A great read – had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend this book.
Five Stars A superb and honest examination of a truly unique relationship. Insightful, revealing, and heartfelt. A must read. Outstanding.
A must read for every father When I started to read this book I really didn’t know what to expect. I’m very interested in books about relationships but don’t usually read books on sports. I was pleasantly surprised as I couldn’t put this book down it was so good. It really helped me understand the value of a strong male relationship that every young man should have. I highly recommend this book and I am going to buy it and give it as graduation and Father’s Day gifts.