Coaches' Eclectic Taste in Music Highlighted During NCAA Tournament
Coaches' Eclectic Taste in Music Highlighted During NCAA Tournament
As the NCAA Tournament draws fans' attention to the spectacular display of collegiate basketball prowess, an intriguing aspect of the event has emerged, showcasing the diverse musical preferences of the participating coaches. From chart-toppers like Taylor Swift to legends such as Michael Jackson and 2Pac, the tournament is not only a battleground for athletic supremacy but also a stage where various music genres play a role in defining the personalities behind the teams.
Taylor Swift Reigns Supreme Among Coaches
Taylor Swift, known for her catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics, seems to have found a dedicated fan base among NCAA coaches. Brigham Young University’s (BYU) head coach, Mark Pope, stands out for his admiration of Swift's work, listing songs like "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer" among his favorites. Pope's eclectic taste reflects not just a preference for Swift's music but also an appreciation for storytelling through song, a sentiment that resonates with many of his peers.
Country music also finds its way into the hearts of NCAA coaches, with artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney earning their spots on the tournament's unofficial playlist. These selections underscore the coaches' connection to themes of resilience, celebration, and introspection, elements commonly explored in the genre.
Diverse Musical Interests Among Coaches
While country and pop genres capture the attention of many coaches, others express their individuality through different musical preferences. T.J. Otzelberger, for instance, expresses his admiration for Ed Sheeran’s guitar pedal skills, highlighting a respect for technical prowess in music. Kentucky’s John Calipari, on the other hand, tunes into the beats of Drake, aligning himself with contemporary hip-hop sounds.
Shaka Smart’s choice of 2Pac adds another layer to the coaches’ musical landscape, revealing a preference for impactful lyrics and vibrant storytelling. The diversity extends further with coaches like Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry, who align themselves with the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, appreciating his unparalleled influence on music and culture.
Bashir Mason diversifies the playlist with favorites like Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z, each artist a representation of groundbreaking musical achievements and endless creativity. Echoing the sentiments for legendary performers, Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo show admiration for Jay-Z and the Jackson Five, respectively, tying past to present as they bring these influences into their coaching lives.
Anticipation Builds for the NCAA Tournament
The NCAA Tournament is more than just a basketball championship; it's a cultural phenomenon that unites sports, music, and the personal stories of those involved. This year, teams like UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina secure their positions as No. 1 seeds, each aiming to etch their names into the annals of collegiate basketball greatness. UConn, in particular, strives to achieve a historic repeat championship, a feat not seen since 2007.
UConn's recent triumph in the Big East Tournament, their first since 2011, and a nearly flawless performance since December 20, underscore their prowess and resilience, themes often mirrored in the coaches’ favorite songs. As the teams prepare for the intense competition ahead, the myriad musical preferences of their coaches provide a fascinating backdrop, adding depth to the tournament's narrative.
The NCAA Tournament is indeed a remarkable blend of sports, music, and culture, showcasing not just the athletic talents of young basketball stars but also offering a glimpse into the multifaceted personalities of their mentors. As the games unfold, these musical preferences not only serve as motivating soundtracks but also as reminders of the human stories intertwined with the pursuit of collegiate glory. Whether it’s the heartwarming lyrics of Taylor Swift or the rhythm-driven beats of Jay-Z, music remains a constant companion in the journey to victory, influencing and inspiring in equal measure.
