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, 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.
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.
Well written, insightful Books about John Wooden should be required reading. You always come away learning something. What I enjoyed most about this one is how Kareem demonstrates how 2 thoughful, well intentioned people can have different views based on their life individual experiences, and be able to learn from each other’s perspectives.
Kareem has written a beautiful book. You might think the book would be lightweight and predictable, but the story goes beyond expectations and really resonates in today’s world of intolerance. The book also elevated me spiritually. Kareem’s skill as a writer, and hard work to get at the truth of his relationship with Coach Wooden is evident. I first read about Coach Wooden in the 1980s and came to appreciate his work ethic, honesty, and leadership. And I also had a lot of respect for Kareem, first watching him play for the Lakers,…