Walton and the Wizard

The coach grew up on a small farm in Centerton, Ind. 

The player grew up in San Diego, near the Pacific Ocean.

The coach was a devout Christian and practiced his faith daily, often saying if he were ever prosecuted for his religion, he hoped there would be enough evidence for a conviction. 

The player was a devout “Deadhead,” following The Grateful Dead whenever they were on tour, attending over 800 concerts in all.

The coach was conservative in nature, marrying his college sweetheart after his freshman year.

The player was known to have liberal political views, often protesting on campus.

The coach was short in stature, measuring only 5-foot-10.

The player was tall, standing 6-foot-10. 

Both played professional basketball. Both were All-Americans in college. 

There was a 42-year generational gap between the age of the coach and player when they formed their partnership. 

Somehow, some way, John Wooden — the coach — and Bill Walton — the player — became lifelong friends, forming a wonderful love affair. 

Two different people, from different worlds, formed a friendship and mentorship that transcended time. They loved one another, like a father and son. Their partnership at UCLA accounted for three National Championships and a lifetime of fabulous stories and lessons. 

The basketball community lost a legend this week with the passing of Walton at age 71. 

Walton will always be remembered for his unique personality, his willingness to be genuine and his love for his coach. 

“Other than my parents, no one was more instrumental in my life than Coach Wooden,” Walton said.

Who could have predicted these two would connect as tightly? 

Both were great competitors, both highly intelligent, both loved their school and wanted to win championships. 

But the lasting impact is one of the greatest leadership lessons we all can inspire to share. 

Wooden allowed Walton to be himself within the structure of his program. He didn’t agree with Walton’s protests on campus, or his view on the Vietnam War. 

"One of the saddest days for Coach Wooden was the day he came down and had to bail me out of jail after I got arrested in the anti-Vietnam protest,” Walton said on ESPN Classic's Sports Century series.

“He said, 'Bill, I know you feel very strongly about this, but I just don't think that you getting arrested and taking part in this demonstration is what it's all about.’” 

Wooden found other ways to get inside Walton’s head, to be an inspiration to him and inspire him long after their partnership ended.

Walton regularly calling him twice a week until Wooden's passing. Their conversations were not just small talk; Walton would patiently wait on the line for Wooden to answer, cherishing their heartfelt exchanges. 

Wooden acknowledged Walton's unwavering love and commitment, saying, "Bill calls me twice a week, and I love talking to him. Though it's true, I don't do much of the talking.”

Wooden’s pyramid of success would appear on the lunch bags of Walton’s kids before they went to school as motivation for them to be their best. 

Walton's reverence for his coach extended beyond their personal bond. He carried Wooden's definition of success, which emphasized the "tranquil contentment that comes from knowing you've given your all," rather than mere accolades or achievements. 

Walton acknowledged the challenge of embracing this concept, but it shaped his perspective on what truly mattered in life. 

Their relationship exemplified the profound impact a coach can have on a player, transcending the realm of sports.

When the coach doesn’t judge the player by their appearance or beliefs, instead, learning to understand his or her persona, unlikely partnerships can form. 

Walton's unwavering admiration for his coach and his commitment to upholding Wooden's principles serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of a great teacher and mentor. 

We here at The Daily Coach extend our deepest sympathies to the Walton family. 

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