As the NCAA Tournament heats up, the basketball court isn't the only place where competition is fierce. Off the court, the musical preferences of NCAA coaches reveal a battle of genres, artists, and anthems, showcasing a rich tapestry of taste that underscores their individual personalities and, perhaps, coaching philosophies. From the heartstring tugs of Taylor Swift's narrative ballads to the gritty rhymes of Jay-Z, the musical selections of these coaches are as varied as the strategies they employ in pursuit of college basketball's ultimate prize.
The Swift Influence
Leading the charge in this eclectic mix is none other than pop-icon Taylor Swift, who finds a staunch supporter in BYU's head coach, Mark Pope. Pope's playlist favorites present a deep dive into Swift's discography, with tracks such as "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," and "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version) highlighting his preferences, alongside "Cruel Summer." This mix not only showcases Pope's varied taste but also underscores Swift's versatility as an artist capable of crafting songs that resonate on a personal level, even with NCAA coaches.
The appreciation for country music and a dash of Christian rock among coaches further enriches the tournament's musical landscape. Artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, and Kenny Chesney receive nods for their contributions to the country scene, while Jeremy Camp's spiritually uplifting tunes strike a chord among certain coaches, painting a broader picture of the multi-faceted musical interests that weave through the NCAA's coaching ranks.
Genre Diversity Amongst Coaches
Delving deeper into the musical predilections, the diversity extends to those with affinities for legends of yesteryears. The likes of Michael Jackson, Prince, and Earth, Wind & Fire remain influential, captivating the hearts of coaches like Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, and Bashir Mason. Mason’s eclectic taste also extends to Jay-Z, demonstrating a bridge between the timeless appeal of the classics and the relentless pulse of modern hip-hop.
Unique preferences shine through with coaches like T.J. Otzelberger, who expresses admiration for Ed Sheeran's masterful use of guitar pedals, and John Calipari and Shaka Smart, who find their rhythms in the beats of Drake and 2Pac respectively. Such choices underscore the individualistic nature of musical taste and its ability to reflect personal identities, even in the realm of college basketball coaching.
Uniting Sports and Music in March Madness
As eyes turn towards the NCAA Tournament with UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina holding the coveted No. 1 seeds, the backdrop of these coaches' musical choices adds a layer of cultural depth to the spectacle of March Madness. UConn, in particular, seeks to cement its legacy by aiming to become the first repeat champion since 2007, having recently celebrated its first Big East Tournament title since 2011. With an impressive record of resilience, losing only once since December 20, the team exemplifies the enduring spirit of determination and triumph that March Madness encapsulates, reminiscent of the narratives found in the songs cherished by their coaches.
The NCAA Tournament, thus, becomes a confluence of sports, music, and culture, where the personal eclectic tastes of coaches add a vibrant strand to the multifaceted fabric of March Madness. Whether it’s through rallying behind the lyrical storytelling of Taylor Swift, the soulful beats of Jay-Z, or the timeless classics of Michael Jackson, these musical affinities provide insight into the personalities that shape the strategies and dynamics of college basketball’s most electrifying showdown.
As the tournament progresses, the synergy between the soundtracks of these coaches’ lives and their courtside endeavors will undoubtedly add an intriguing layer to the narrative of March Madness. In a competition where every dribble, pass, and shot counts, the coaches' playlists serve as a reminder of the human emotions, inspirations, and connections that fuel the relentless pursuit of glory. In the end, just as in music, March Madness is about stories, and through the shared love for tunes that touch the soul, the tournament sings a harmonious ballad of ambition, resilience, and unity.
