Coaches' Eclectic Taste in Music Shines Through During NCAA Tournament
Coaches' Eclectic Taste in Music Shines Through During NCAA Tournament
As the NCAA Tournament heats up, it's not just the basketball skills on display that are capturing attention, but also the diverse musical tastes of the coaches leading their teams through March Madness. From the pop anthems of Taylor Swift to the soulful tunes of Earth, Wind & Fire, coaches across the board are showcasing a wide range of music preferences that mirror the dynamism and diversity of the tournament itself.
Swift Takes the Lead
Taylor Swift emerges as a surprising favorite among NCAA Tournament coaches, bridging the gap between pop culture and sports in an unexpected harmony. BYU's head coach, Mark Pope, stands out as a Swiftie, with a particular fondness for tracks such as "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer." Swift's narrative-driven songwriting seems to resonate with these coaches, offering a form of storytelling that parallels the drama and anticipation of the tournament.
Country and More on the Playlist
However, Swift isn't the only artist on these coaches' playlists. The country music genre also emerges as a popular choice, with artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney making the cut. Their songs, often centered around themes of heartache, resilience, and celebration, might reflect the emotional rollercoaster that is the NCAA Tournament.
Christian music artist Jeremy Camp finds favor among some coaches as well, bringing a spiritual element into the eclectic mix. Meanwhile, T.J. Otzelberger expresses admiration for Ed Sheeran's guitar pedal skills, showcasing a deep appreciation for musical craftsmanship that goes beyond genre or style.
Not to be outdone, NBA-bound talents like John Calipari and Shaka Smart lean towards the urban beats of Drake and 2Pac, respectively, differing in era but unified in their influence over generations of music lovers.
Music Icons Among the Picks
The spectrum of musical preferences stretches even wider as we delve deeper into the coaches' selections. Legends like Michael Jackson and Prince find their way into the hearts of coaches such as Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry, a testament to the timeless appeal of their music. Bashir Mason adds another layer to this rich tapestry with his choices of Earth Wind & Fire and Jay-Z, encapsulating both the soul of the past and the rhythm of modern hip-hop.
On a similar note, Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo's picks of Jay-Z and the Jackson Five respectively, offer a glimpse into the personal soundtracks that have perhaps motivated and inspired these coaches throughout their careers.
The Road Ahead in the Tournament
As the NCAA Tournament progresses, the stakes are higher than ever, especially for teams like UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina, all seeded No. 1 in their respective brackets. UConn, in particular, is on a quest to etch its name in history by becoming the first repeat champion since 2007. With a remarkable track record that includes winning its first Big East Tournament title since 2011 and sustaining only one loss since December 20, UConn's journey is one to watch closely.
This mix of musical enthusiasm and competitive spirit underscores the NCAA Tournament as more than a showcase of collegiate basketball excellence; it's a cultural phenomenon that encapsulates sports, music, and the diverse personalities that bring it to life.
Conclusion
The NCAA Tournament continues to be a unique convergence of sports, music, and culture, highlighted by the coaches' varied musical tastes. From the storytelling prowess of Taylor Swift to the infectious beats of Michael Jackson, and the soulful rhythms of Earth, Wind & Fire, these preferences add a personal touch to the intense world of college basketball. As the competition intensifies, it will be interesting to see which teams' dreams will be uplifted by victory anthems and which will face the music of defeat.
