The papers here have been filled with tales of the legendary coach. I was lucky enough to have met him as well as have a long time correspondence.
My favorite story was that about the then firebrand Bill Walton. When the coach told Bill he would have to cut his long hair, Bill said "NO coach I have a right to have my hair long!"
John Wooden replied, "Yes Bill you have that right, and I have the right to not have you on the team!" "We will miss you Bill." Bill jumped on his bike and rushed to Westwood and got a haircut. Coach gave him 15 minutes to comply. Bill got back 5 minutes late and prayed the coach didn't notice.