On Friday night, we have terribly sad news to pass along: John Wooden, arguably the most iconic coach in the history of American sports, has passed away at the age of 99 following a series of health complications. From the LA Times:
Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, whose teams won seven consecutive NCAA championships and had a record winning streak of 88 games, died Friday. He was 99.
We use the word "legendary" all the time. This time, we mean it. Wooden was a figure, both professionally and personally, who was universally appreciated by anyone who has ever appreciated the game of basketball. He might just be on the top of a very, very short list.
His passing is sad, but the man lived ninety-nine happy years. Rest in peace, sir. To find reactions from UCLA fans, check in with our own UCLA blog, Bruins Nation.