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UCLA reminded of John Wooden’s legacy ahead of Final Four showdown with Gonzaga

INDIANAPOLIS —

John Wooden’s favorite diner was packed on that Sunday morning as Mick Cronin stepped through the front door alongside his father.

It was the new UCLA basketball coach’s first trip to VIP’s, the Tarzana café that Wooden frequented for many years before his death. Cronin had recently purchased a home in nearby Encino and was eager to pay homage to his legendary predecessor while scarfing down some breakfast.

One booth opened immediately among the sea of diners, allowing Cronin and his father to take a seat once the wood laminate table had been wiped clean.