As Riley Wallace's 20-year career as University of Hawai'i head basketball coach comes to its close, fans remember the iconic moments of the Wallace era. The yelling, the thrown coats and the intense loyalty to the school, the team and to other coaches.

During his tenure at UH, Wallace has coached memorable games, restored luster to a once-tarnished program and earned the respect of players, opposing coaches and fans. UH won eight Rainbow Classic championships, seven NIT games and more than 71 percent of home games under Wallace's watch. Who can forget the 1997 upset of No. 2 Kansas in the championship game of the Rainbow Classic, considered the greatest upset in the history of UH basketball?

But as much as games won and lost, championships and awards are hallmarks of the span of a career, it is the intangible qualities that measure the man and his lasting effect.

In all the accolades Wallace has received, it is the testimony of all those who have played for him that best defines his legacy.

"His general principles of teamwork are embedded in my persona forever..." — former player Predrag Savovic. "He gave me a chance when I didn't think I had a chance" — former player Anthony Carter. "Coach Wallace and Mrs. Wallace were like our parents... If it wasn't for them, I don't know where I'd be" — former player Troy Bowe.

Wallace made UH basketball a better program, he made his players better people. Hawai'i should be forever grateful.