Guerrero on Wooden

“Early Friday evening, UCLA lost its living legend when John Wooden passed away.

“There will never be another John Wooden. Those of us fortunate enough to have known this exceptional man will remember the impact he has made on our lives forever. His greatness was such that he also had a profound effect on people whom he never met.

“As members of the Bruin Family, I know you share our sadness at the passing of this amazing individual. The way Coach lived his life, cherishing his family and treating everyone, from his best friend to someone he had never met, with great respect, should be an example to all of us. Those are the ideals we strive to instill in all of our student-athletes and they come directly from Coach.

“As you reflect on his passing, be happy for Coach, because he is now with Nell, his wife of almost 53 years before her passing in 1985. Remember his humility, his integrity and his love of life and pass those thoughts on to your friends and family, especially your children.

“Take pride in knowing Coach Wooden was one of us – a Bruin – and honor his passing by making each day your masterpiece.”