Del Harris Honored with Coach Wooden 'Keys to Life' Award
After more than 50 years of coaching basketball, Del Harris will be honored for his leadership and service with the Coach Wooden “Keys to Life” Award. Established in 1998, the award is given to a college or professional basketball player or coach, current or past, who models the characteristics of UCLA men's basketball legend, Coach John Wooden. Harris’ dedication to his faith, his generosity and his character are just a few reasons Athletes in Action will recognize him with this honor.
Harris' coaching career touches basketball players and fans of every level. Beginning as a junior high coach, Harris led high school and college teams before moving to the NBA. A former head coach of the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers, Harris was named the 1995 NBA Coach of the Year. He ranks in the top 25 in games won and in playoff games coached in the NBA. Additionally, Harris coached national teams of five different countries in world competition.
Nominated for consideration to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, he is already a member of several halls of fame, including the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. An ordained minister and the current vice president of the Texas Legends, Harris is also an author of several books.
This is not the first time Harris has been honored for his character and integrity. In 2011, Harris received the Jerry Colangelo Award at the All-Star Breakfast, an event hosted by Athletes in Action.
Harris will receive the Coach Wooden “Keys to Life” award at the Legends of the Hardwood Breakfast, hosted annually by Athletes in Action and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, during Final Four weekend in Dallas, Texas.
