Wilbur Johns (1985) - Hall of Fame

Wilbur Johns

Induction:
1985

Wilbur Johns is one of the most important figures in UCLA athletic history. In his 42 years at UCLA, perhaps his most impactful decisions were to bring in two coaches who changed the face of Bruin sports: basketball's John Wooden and football's Red Sanders. In Johns' 16-year tenure as athletic director (1947-1962), UCLA won eight NCAA titles and 27 conference championships. He was one of the architects of the Athletic Association of Western Universities, and he also was the driving force behind the formation of the United States Track and Field Federation. After his retirement, he was given a testamonial at the Palladium, which was attended by 800 well-wishers.

Johns, who died at 63 in 1967, was inducted into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame in 1985.