- Been a Trojan Fan Forever but Also Loved UCLA Basketball During Wooden Era: A Tale of Dual Loyalt
As a lifelong fan of the USC Trojans, the cardinal and gold have always been woven into the fabric of my sports fandom. From the electric atmosphere of the Coliseum on fall Saturdays to the passionate basketball games at Galen Center, my heart has always belonged to Troy. However, there’s one thing that makes me unique in my fandom – my unwavering love for UCLA basketball during the Wooden era. It’s a tale of dual loyalty that has lasted for decades, and it’s a testament to the power of great sportsmanship and historic athletic programs.
Growing up in Southern California, it was impossible to ignore the massive influence both USC and UCLA had on the sports landscape. While USC football had my heart from an early age, especially during the dominant eras with legends like Carson Palmer and Reggie Bush, UCLA basketball had its own magic that captivated me, particularly under the tutelage of the legendary coach John Wooden. Watching Wooden’s UCLA teams dominate the NCAA tournament, racking up 10 championships in 12 years from 1964 to 1975, was something special. The Bruins weren’t just a great basketball team; they were an institution of greatness.
During Wooden’s reign, the Bruins played basketball with a fluidity and discipline that was second to none. The style of play that he instilled in his teams, focused on teamwork, unselfishness, and a commitment to the fundamentals, was something that transcended the game of basketball. It wasn’t just about the wins; it was about how those wins were achieved. The precision of UCLA’s fast breaks, the elegance of their passing, and the perfection of their defense were things I admired as a kid. Watching Lew Alcindor (later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), Bill Walton, and other greats lead the charge was awe-inspiring.
Though I wore the colors of Troy and cheered for USC in every rivalry matchup, my admiration for UCLA basketball under Wooden never diminished. There was something about their dominance that demanded respect. The rivalry between USC and UCLA, particularly in football, has been intense and often contentious, but my love for basketball allowed me to appreciate UCLA’s excellence in a different light. The rivalry was always about the sport itself; it was about competing at the highest level, regardless of the school.
I think that’s why I’ve always felt a unique connection to both programs. In college sports, especially in Southern California, loyalty often runs deep. But at the same time, there’s a certain beauty in recognizing greatness outside your own team. The W
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