"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one." - John Wooden

Having too much confidence can sometimes lead someone to be considered self-centered. When an individual constantly thinks that they are the best, they will never be able to acknowledge failure or coming in second. On the other hand, when someone does not take the time to recognize the accomplishments they have made or never pick their head back up from a moment of judgment, then they will continue down the road of a simple life. For more quotes presented by John Wooden, here is a website that contains over fifty more phrases for you to examine:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/23041.John_Wooden

"Iniative means having the courage to make decisions and take action. Simple as that. Keep in mind that we are all going to fail at times. You must understand this and not fear failure. None of us is perfect. But if you are afraid to fail you will never do the things you are capable of doing." - John Wooden

    http://www.achievement.org/autodoc/page/woo0int-2 
John Wooden came from a family that included a mom, dad, three sons, and two sisters who died before they reached the age of three. He has stressed, especially to his players, that it is okay to fail now and then because we cannot be the best at everything. John Wooden had the strength to be who he wanted to be without exactly following his brothers or anyone's footsteps. His brothers chose one route and John Wooden kept his confidence and courage to work for what he desired to do in life. Do not let anyone bring you down or say that you cannot do something. Having the continuous dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude will lead you to success.

"Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there. -John Wooden.

One could be an extremely talented basketball player, but that is not the only trait that they should rely on in order to be considered a winner. John Wooden constantly reminded his players that elements such as personality, proper attitude, respect, and dedication are only a couple features that will help them become champions. Life includes similar actions and the most important component is how one individual responds in serious, as well as everyday, situations. Having the strength to maintain these characteristics will result in success. 

                  http://obit-mag.com/articles/the-true-success-of-john-wooden
    In this photo, UCLA Coach John Wooden talks with player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.