Exploring the Musical Choices of NCAA Tournament Coaches
Exploring the Musical Choices of NCAA Tournament Coaches
As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, the diverse musical tastes of its coaches are coming to the forefront, offering a unique insight into the personalities that pace the sidelines. Among the eclectic mix of artists and bands favored by these basketball tacticians, Taylor Swift emerges as a common favorite, particularly for BYU's head coach Mark Pope. Pope’s playlist includes Swift's hits such as "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," and "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), along with "Cruel Summer," painting a picture of a coach with a profound appreciation for storytelling in music.
However, the musical preferences extend beyond the pop genre, embracing country, rock, and hip-hop. Popular among the coaches are country artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney, reflecting the genre's widespread appeal in the sports community. Contemporary Christian musician Jeremy Camp also finds favor among this diverse group, hinting at the personal beliefs and inspirations that influence some of the NCAA's coaches.
From Ed Sheeran to 2Pac: A Broad Spectrum of Inspirations
The coaches' admiration is not limited to a single genre or era. T.J. Otzelberger, for instance, expressed his admiration for Ed Sheeran's proficiency with the guitar pedal, showcasing a respect for individual musical prowess. College basketball stalwarts like John Calipari and Shaka Smart reveal their preferences for top charters Drake and the legendary 2Pac, respectively, underscoring the broad spectrum of musical tastes that influence these professionals.
The reverence for music transcends generations among the coaches, with selections ranging from Michael Jackson to Jay-Z. Coaches Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry unite in their choice of Michael Jackson, an icon whose legacy continues to permeate through various facets of culture. Meanwhile, Bashir Mason diversifies his musical portfolio with preferences for Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z, indicating a blend of funk, soul, and hip-hop that perhaps mirrors his coaching philosophy's versatility.
Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo, on the other hand, favor Jay-Z and the Jackson Five respectively, showcasing the musical influences that have withstood the test of time, much like their coaching careers.
Ahead of the Tournament: Expectations and Ambitions
As we turn our attention to the impending tournament, UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina emerge as the No. 1 seeds, with each team carrying not just the hopes of their respective institutions but also the unique musical inspirations of their coaches into the fray. UConn, in particular, stands out with its ambition to clinch the title of repeat champion, a feat last achieved in 2007. Having secured its first Big East Tournament title since 2011 and sustaining only one loss since December 20, UConn's journey epitomizes the culmination of preparation, talent, and perhaps the motivational anthems that echo in their locker room.
The NCAA Tournament is more than just a showcase of collegiate basketball; it's a melding of sports, music, and culture. As March Madness unfolds, it brings to the forefront not only the tactical acumen of its coaches but also the wide array of musical tastes that inspire and motivate these figures. From "Cornelia Street" to "Karma" and beyond, the coaches’ playlists offer a glimpse into the personal lives that enrich their professional endeavors, making the tournament a richer, more nuanced spectacle.
