A Heart-Gripping Story of Championship Resilience in Life's Toughest Battles
“Read it in 5 hours and was moved to tears!”
The Pyramid Principle is based on the true and never before told story of Hall-of-Famer John Vallely. Filled with miraculous triumphs and hellacious heartbreaks, The Pyramid Principle masterfully depicts the impact of UCLA Coach John Wooden and his legendary “Pyramid of Success” he invested into all his players during his 29 year coaching career at UCLA. During Vallely’s daughter’s death from cancer and his own battle with cancer, Vallely would discover Coach Wooden’s true meaning of success.
A Coach’s Legacy of Heroic Love
"An extremely moving piece that brought me to tears more than once," remarks Tim Dekay, actor in 'White Collar' and 'Oppenheimer.' "It's very tight, has great transitions, and will put the reader on an emotional path."
"A beautifully written story," remarks Gregory Craig, Chairman of the Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Anderson at UCLA. "I reflected and took away valuable life lessons. It celebrates an era of coaching and teaching that has left us but still has great value. These timeless lessons and challenges remind us that life is fleeting and must be treasured."
A Portion of the Proceeds Benefit Pediatric Cancer Research
Published by SpiritMedia.US
“A worthy opponent brings out the best in me,” Vallely writes, and this emotive book takes that wisdom to heart. As he faces challenges both on and off the court, Vallely remains faithful to the tenants of Wooden’s pyramid, ultimately realizing that it led him to God, and that the "search for competitive greatness would lead us to faith.” He breaks the pyramid’s principles down step-by-step for readers, alongside intimate glimpses into how they played out in his own life, always with an uplifting, encouraging tone regardless of the crises he confronts. "When you’re facing the severity of the termination of your life, every affirmation of your survival is invigorating,” he pens—sentiment that will stir in readers a renewed sense of purpose for their own lives.
Whether coming up against a seven-foot-tall basketball opponent or a major corporation like the Bank of America, Vallely highlights the importance of maintaining his faith and fighting for just outcomes. His writing is infused with a striking balance of vulnerability and courage, a winning combination that lays the foundation for valuable life lessons, and his inclusion of personal photographs gives the book a close, familiar feel. This moving debut story of endurance, faith, and resilience will inspire.
Takeaway: NBA star shares life lessons passed down from a college coach.
Comparable Titles: David Grunfeld's By the Grace of the Game, David Hollander's How Basketball Can Save the World.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
I just finished your book John and to say I was overwhelmed by the power of your words would be an understatement. And I guess I could relate so closely to it because I could see myself so vividly as you were caring for and I was caring for my wife and then I identified with your wife, Karen, as she was caring for you. But how you described so vividly what Erin went through and then your own journey gave me a whole new understanding of what my wife must have been going through. But what drove me to not stop reading was the power of faith throughout the book-in the beginning you didn’t know it was faith playing a role but then as you became a person of faith you began to recognize it all as a part of His glorious plan and as a result you gave me a renewed sense of hope for my own life. I will forever be in your debt for many things but this book was a capstone.
And one last thing-if anyone ever doubts to me about the power, the glory and the existence of God I will tell them the story of “what kind of wine do you drink dad” and that will shut them up for sure. Love you man
"WOW! WOW! WOW! The story is a beautiful, rich, masterpiece. A powerful message, with lessons, villains, hero's, and quite an ending! I strongly recommend it.”
An extremely moving story that brought me to tears more than once. It is very tight, has great transitions, and although one can be aware of the story, it is unpredictable and sends the reader on an emotional path. It’s a big hit.Congratulations!"
New Book Offers Championship Resilience in Life's Toughest Battles
RALEIGH, N.C., Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SpiritMedia.US, a leading international book publishing and marketing company, celebrates the release of The Pyramid Principle by John Vallely with Paul Weissenstein on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. The book shares a heart-gripping story of hope to anyone fighting cancer and facing hard places in their life.
The book will be available everywhere books are sold. Links to popular retailers are available at: http://thepyramidprinciple.org.
The Pyramid Principle is the never-before-told story of John Vallely, a former NBA player, UCLA Hall-of-Famer, and two-time NCAA basketball champion coached by the legendary John Wooden. The story highlights the profound impact of Coach Wooden's love and his Pyramid of Success on Vallely's life. This impact was not only on the basketball court but in the most challenging personal circumstances, including losing his 12-year-old daughter to cancer, surviving cancer twice himself, and risking it all in a horrific legal fight with Bank of America for his father's land.
This book has received extremely favorable reviews for its story of heroic love and is poised to be a #1 global bestseller. SpiritMedia.US will be distributing the book worldwide in multiple languages including Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, and German, with more languages and the ebook and audiobook versions to follow.
"From the moment I heard John Vallely's story, I knew it was something special," said co-author Paul Weissenstein. "His journey is a testament to the power of Coach Wooden's teachings and serves as a beacon of hope for families battling cancer."
A portion of the book's proceeds benefit pediatric cancer research. In October, the authors partnered with the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation to host a successful fundraiser at UCLA. Nearly 400 attendees gathered for the event, raising more than $120,830 to support cancer research. Ahead of the event, Sports Illustrated highlighted The Pyramid Principle and its authors in a piece on the impact of Coach John Wooden's teachings on Vallely's life.
"John Vallely took his family's pain and turned it into great purpose to help others going through pain," explains UCLA women's basketball coach Cori Close. "Wow. What a legacy. Coach Wooden taught us that we are responsible for being givers, not takers. Wooden's love gave John Vallely the strength, fortitude, and selflessness to live this out throughout his life."
Global excitement for The Pyramid Principle continued this Fall, with SpiritMedia.US Founder/CEO Kevin White presenting the book at the Frankfurt Book Fair. Kevin was also honored to attend a dinner briefing hosted by the U.S. Consul General, Brian Heath, at the Literaturhaus Frankfurt. At the Fair, SpiritMedia.US collaborated with the world's largest printer, R.R. Donnelley, to engage brokers, buyers, and distributors in more than 15 countries.
"The Pyramid Principle is one of the best leadership books I've ever read," said SpiritMedia.US Founder/CEO Kevin White. "I finished the manuscript in one sitting and cried as I read it. We celebrate the impact of Coach Wooden's legacy, exemplified in the love between a coach and his player, a husband and his wife, and a father and his daughter."
The Pyramid Principle will be available at all major retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart, as well as independent bookstores nationwide. Athletic departments and leadership schools such as UCLA, Duke, Liberty, St. John's, and others have requested to use the book in their programs. A portion of every book sale provides support for those suffering from cancer. For more information, please visit: http://thepyramidprinciple.org
For materials on the book, including a free preview for media professionals, visit the media kit here: Media Kit (11.13.24)
About SpiritMedia.US
SpiritMedia.US is a full-service publishing and marketing company. The organization aims to publish God-size stories to the nations. Headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., the results-driven, international company includes individuals from the U.S., India, Australia, Ukraine, the Philippines, Spain, and Nigeria. SpiritMedia.US has published hundreds of books and websites, working with clients worldwide. For more information, visit SpiritMedia.US or follow @spiritmedia.us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.
About The Pyramid Principle
The Pyramid Principle is a memoir based on the never-before-told story of Hall-of-Famer John Vallely. Filled with miraculous triumphs and hellacious heartbreaks, The Pyramid Principle masterfully depicts the impact of UCLA Coach John Wooden and the legendary Pyramid of Success he invested in all his players during his 29-year coaching career at UCLA. During Vallely's daughter's death from cancer and his two battles with the disease, Vallely would discover Coach Wooden's true meaning of success. For more information, visit thepyramidprinciple.org or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
About John Vallely
John Vallely was a starting guard for UCLA from 1968-1970, playing for Coach John Wooden. Known as "Money Man" for his clutch performances, he helped secure two NCAA championships. In 1970, he was named an All-American, was drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks, and married his wife Karen. Following their daughter's death from cancer, John and Karen have become passionate advocates for pediatric cancer research.
About Paul Weissenstein
Paul Weissenstein is a former collegiate Division 1 strength and performance coach, most notably working with Hall of Fame basketball Coach Bill Self at the University of Illinois. Most recently, Paul coached at Sierra Canyon High School before transitioning into writing, producing, and adapting books into motion picture projects.
About Coach John Wooden
John Wooden, widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in sports history, guided the UCLA Bruins to an unprecedented ten NCAA championships in twelve years, including seven consecutive titles from 1967 to 1973. His legacy goes beyond basketball; he mentored legends such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Walton, instilling the values of excellence and integrity. Wooden, honored in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his achievements as both player and coach, created the Pyramid of Success to provide a timeless framework for achieving greatness in all areas of life, reflecting his deep commitment to character-building and personal development.
About UCLA
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university and one of the ten campuses of the University of California system. Ranked by publications as among the best universities in the world, UCLA consistently excels in research, academics, and innovation. Competing in athletics as the Bruins, UCLA has won 123 NCAA team championships in the Pac-12, second only to Stanford University. Among their sports achievements, basketball features their most impressive victories, owing to Coach John Wooden.
About PCRF
Since 1982, the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF) has been chasing one ambitious goal: to make it possible for all children facing childhood cancer to beat their disease and realize their full potential. PCRF achieves this by powering cures where none exist and giving rise to less toxic regimens that have fewer side effects. They have invested more than $46 million in pediatric cancer research and contributed to groundbreaking advances in treatment. Become involved at https://pcrf-kids.org
Media Contact
Jeremy Lorin
1-888-800-3744
jeremy@spiritmedia.us
SOURCE Spirit Media Inc.
Projected NY Times Bestseller Chronicles an Untold Story of Legendary Head Coach John Wooden
RALEIGH, N.C., Aug. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SpiritMedia.US, a leading international book publishing and marketing company, has secured exclusive rights to publishing and distributing The Pyramid Principle by UCLA basketball Hall of Famer and former NBA player John Vallely with Paul Weissenstein. The book, which chronicles the impact of revered NCAA head coach John Wooden, is anticipated to be a New York Times Bestseller. Greg Ray, the CEO of the International Thought Leader Network, negotiated the agreement.
To view the full materials, please click here.
The story traces Vallely's journey from a small-time kid in Newport Beach to junior college athlete, consecutive NCAA champion, first-round NBA draft pick, and cancer survivor, with Coach Wooden's mentorship supporting Vallely through his daughter's cancer battle and his own. It spans a poignant five decades, highlighting chapters where the former Atlanta Hawk and Houston Rocket return to Coach Wooden's words for guidance and strength.
As a 6'3'' guard, Vallely played for UCLA from 1968 to 1970 under the leadership of Coach Wooden, sharing the court with future NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabar. In his first year, he emerged as the third-leading scorer and the linchpin of the Bruins' backcourt. With Vallely on the roster, the team won consecutive NCAA championships during the 1968-1969 and 1968-1970 seasons, marking Coach Wooden's third and fourth consecutive title with the Bruins. Declaring for the 1970 NBA draft, Vallely was picked 14th in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks, playing behind the exceptional Pete Maravich.
"An extremely moving piece that brought me to tears more than once," remarks Tim Dekay, actor in 'White Collar' and 'Oppenheimer.' "It's very tight, has great transitions, and will put the reader on an emotional path."
The book title refers to Coach Wooden's Pyramid of Success, a now iconic triangle diagram identifying 25 characteristics for achieving excellence, which has found application in many disciplines beyond competitive basketball. Coach Wooden, widely regarded as the greatest college basketball coach of all time, was respected and beloved by players and the larger basketball community for inspiring his team to be better people as much as better athletes. In doing so, he fostered greatness, setting records that have yet to be touched, namely the most consecutive wins in Division I men's basketball. His teams boasted several All-Americans, notably Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, Jamaal Wilkes, Sidney Wicks, and Henry Bibby.
"A beautifully written story," remarks Gregory Craig, Chairman of the Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Anderson at UCLA. "I reflected and took away valuable life lessons. It celebrates an era of coaching and teaching that has left us but still has great value. These timeless lessons and challenges remind us that life is fleeting and must be treasured."
Central to Vallely's story is his fight against cancer, which took his daughter's life and almost claimed his own. Empowered by Coach Wooden's lesson of "faith through prayer," Vallely overcame severe hardships, leading to his significant involvement in the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation after his recovery. In collaboration with the V. Foundation for Cancer Research, they've created Dribble for Victory Over Cancer, a national campaign uniting college basketball teams and their communities in the fight against childhood cancer. With the book's publication, SpiritMedia.US hopes to raise awareness for cancer research, dedicating a portion of the book proceeds towards this cause.
The book is expected to perform strongly on bestseller lists, reaching multiple market segments. Its intersection between faith, sports, and cancer research promises a varied readership. The UCLA community, including those who played for or knew Coach Wooden, eagerly awaits the book's publication to honor Coach's legacy. Countless stories have celebrated Coach's impact on sports, yet this one promises to define his legacy beyond the hardwood.
About SpiritMedia.US
SpiritMedia.US is a full-service publishing and marketing company. The organization aims to spread the good news of Jesus in all 195 nations. Headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., the results-driven, international company includes individuals from the U.S., India, Ukraine, Lithuania, the Philippines, and Nigeria. SpiritMedia.US has published hundreds of books and websites, working with clients worldwide. For more information, visit SpiritMedia.US or follow @spiritmedia.us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube or Instagram.
- Bios -
About The Pyramid Principle: The Pyramid Principle by John Vallely and Paul Weissenstein takes you into the heart of Coach John Wooden's leadership, portraying the heart of the legendary UCLA basketball coach who transformed the game and many lives forever. Spanning five electrifying decades, this narrative peels back the curtain on Coach Wooden's mentorship over one of his star players, John Vallely, showcasing how Coach Wooden forged championship greatness on the court and in life.
About John Vallely: John Vallely was a starting guard for UCLA from 1968-1970, playing for Coach John Wooden. Known as "Money Man" for his clutch performances, he helped secure two NCAA championships. In 1970, he was named an All-American, was drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks, and married his fiance Karen. The couple had two children: a son, Eric, and a daughter, Erin. Erin, diagnosed with cancer at 9, lost her fight with the disease at 12. Since then, John and Karen have dedicated themselves to fighting pediatric cancer, with John serving on the Board of Directors for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. Today, he lives in Orange County with his wife Karen and is close to his son Eric and granddaughter Erin.
About UCLA: The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university and one of the ten campuses of the University of California system. Ranked by publications as among the best universities in the world, UCLA consistently excels in research, academics, and innovation. Competing in athletics as the Bruins, UCLA has won 123 NCAA team championships in the Pac-12, second only to Stanford University. Among their sports achievements, basketball features their most impressive victories, owing to Coach John Wooden.
About Coach John Wooden: John Wooden was an American college basketball coach who led the UCLA Bruins to 10 championships in 12 years, winning seven consecutively between 1967 and 1973. He mentored players who would achieve notable success in the pros, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, and Gail Goodrich among them. He was named the NCAA College Basketball Coach of the Year six times and was the first to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach. Apart from his many accolades, he was celebrated for his philosophies and teachings that, over the years, have transcended the sport of basketball. His deep care and encouragement drove his athletes to apply a standard of excellence to every part of their lives.
About Paul Weissenstein: Paul Weissenstein is a former collegiate Division 1 strength and performance coach, most notably working with Hall of Fame basketball coach, Bill Self at the University of Illinois. Most recently Paul coached at Sierra Canyon High School, where he assisted in the development of its highly ranked volleyball and basketball programs. In addition to training numerous athletes, Paul has transitioned into writing, producing, and adapting books into motion picture projects, including the screenplay based on John Vallely's life and "The Pyramid Principle".
About Dribble for Victory Over Cancer: Dribble for Victory Over Cancer combines the efforts of the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation (PCRF) and the V. Foundation for Cancer Research to combat childhood cancer. This movement builds on the community engagement efforts introduced by the PCRF, UCLA, and St. John's University. Ahead of the season, participating college basketball teams host events on campus early in the fall. Participants dribble through short on-campus routes to raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research. The events allow individuals, families, clubs, and teams to connect with the basketball community, all while contributing to a brighter future for kids and families battling cancer.
Media Contact
Jeremy Lorin
1-888-800-3744
jeremy@spiritmedia.us
SOURCE Spirit Media Inc.
Get ready to dive into one of the most unique Christian leadership books, where sports meets spirituality, mentorship meets inspiration, and faith meets real-life lessons
A Christian Leadership Book Like No Other
Building Faith and Leadership with John Wooden’s Wisdom
The Pyramid Principle isn’t your typical leadership manual. John Valley’s journey draws from Coach Wooden’s famous “Pyramid of Success,” but with a spiritual twist that speaks to today’s faith-driven readers. Wooden’s timeless principles—like self-control, confidence, and team spirit—get a fresh perspective, making them applicable for leaders in any arena, whether you’re running a company, leading a team, or guiding your own family.
This book isn’t just another title in the realm of John Wooden books; it’s a creative application of Wooden’s philosophies to help readers grow in faith and purpose.
Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s Impact
Beyond the Basketball Court
Lessons on Resilience and Character from an NBA Legend
Kareem Abdul Jabbar isn’t only an NBA Hall of Famer but also a voice of wisdom, resilience, and strength. In The Pyramid Principle, you’ll find insights from Kareem’s life story and his mentorship under Coach Wooden that encourage readers to dig deeper into their own character and faith. Kareem’s lessons go far beyond sports, offering principles that can guide anyone through life’s ups and downs.
For readers looking for a Kareem Abdul Jabbar book that dives into his values and perseverance, The Pyramid Principle delivers. It’s a story about harnessing inner strength, developing character, and using faith as a source of resilience.
A Story of Hope and Survival for Cancer Fighters and Survivors
John Valley’s Journey as a Cancer Survivor
At the heart of The Pyramid Principle is John Valley’s own story as a cancer survivor. His journey brings a deeply personal perspective to the book, making it relatable for anyone facing life’s toughest challenges. For those who seek cancer survivor books that inspire hope and tenacity, this story is a beacon of faith-driven resilience. John’s story encourages readers to trust in something greater than themselves, and his journey is proof that with faith, you can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. The Pyramid Principle isn’t just a book; it’s a lifeline for those seeking courage and comfort in their struggles.
Key Features of The Pyramid Principle
A Rich Blend of Christian Leadership and Sports Wisdom
In this book, you’ll find powerful lessons for Christian leaders woven together with iconic sports wisdom. Coach Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success” is reimagined as a guide for living a life of faith, strength, and integrity.
Inspiration from Two Sports Legends
With insights from both John Wooden and Kareem Abdul Jabbar, readers are treated to a rare mix of life lessons that transcend time and circumstances. This book gives you the tools to become a better leader, friend, and believer, one principle at a time.
Discover a New Kind of Leadership with The Pyramid Principle
The Pyramid Principle is more than a book—it’s a mentor in print form, a guide for those facing life’s challenges, and a toolkit for building a life rooted in faith, resilience, and purpose. If you’re ready to take your leadership and faith journey to the next level, this book is the perfect companion.
Get your copy of The Pyramid Principle and start your journey of transformation. It’s time to lead, live, and inspire with faith, guided by the wisdom of Wooden and the resilience of Kareem.
Former UCLA men’s basketball starting guard John Vallely is releasing a book, alongside former collegiate Division 1 strength and conditioning coach Paul Weissenstein. Vallely, who played for the Bruins from 1968-70, tells the story of his journey to UCLA and honors Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame head coach John Wooden in a new book titled “The Pyramid Principle”.
The title of Vallely’s book pays tribute to Wooden’s famous “Pyramid of Success”, which highlights 25 key characteristics needed to achieve excellence. Wooden instilled this ideology into his players throughout his 29-season coaching career at UCLA. Although Wooden passed in 2010, his “Pyramid of Success” remains a significant part of UCLA Athletics and beyond.
"A beautifully written story," Gregory Craig, the Chairman of the Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Anderson at UCLA said about the book in a press release. "I reflected and took away valuable life lessons. It celebrates an era of coaching and teaching that has left us but still has great value. These timeless lessons and challenges remind us that life is fleeting and must be treasured."
Entering UCLA as a junior college transfer, Vallely played alongside NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabaar in his two seasons with the Bruins. Vallely, who was UCLA's third-leading scorer in his first season, helped the Bruins win back-to-back NCAA Championships. In 1970, the All-American declared for the NBA draft and was selected by the Atlanta Hawks as the 14th overall pick. He spent time with both the Hawks and the Houston Rockets.
After a successful basketball career, Vallely's life changed forever in 1991. His daughter, Erin, passed away on Sept. 20 after a three-year-long battle with pediatric cancer. She was only 12 years old. A few years later, Vallely was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a potentially fatal form of cancer. After two battles with the disease, Vallely has remained cancer-free ever since.
In "The Pyramid Principle", Vallely explains how Wooden's "Pyramid of Success" became especially relevant in this period of his life. Vallely realized the lessons he learned in his collegiate years under Wooden transcend the sport of basketball. At the top of Wooden's "Pyramid of Success" is "faith through prayer", a value that empowered Vallely through hardship.
Now, Vallely is heavily involved with the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, serving as a member of the Board of Directors. Alongside V. Foundation for Cancer Research, Vallely has founded the Dribble Over Cancer event, which will take place on Sunday at UCLA's Drake Stadium. Additionally, "The Pyramid Principle" is intended to raise awareness for cancer research and will donate a portion of the proceeds to the cause.
At the 17th annual Dribble Over Cancer event on Sunday, both Vallely and co-author Weissenstein will be present for a book signing. Vallely's book, which is expected to be a New York Times Best Seller, is set to release on Nov. 19 and will be available for purchase anywhere books are sold
