Inside the Diverse Musical Tastes of NCAA Tournament Coaches
Inside the Diverse Musical Tastes of NCAA Tournament Coaches
As the rhythms of the NCAA Tournament play out on the court, the beats that stir the hearts of its coaches off the court showcase an eclectic mix of musical preferences. In a surprising revelation, Taylor Swift emerges as a favored artist among many of the elite coaches navigating their teams through the high stakes of March Madness. Yet, Swift's chart-topping hits are just the beginning of a wide-ranging soundtrack that accompanies the NCAA's journey towards crowning a national champion.
Taylor Swift: A Coaches’ Favorite
BYU’s Mark Pope leads the parade of Taylor Swift aficionados with a varied taste that spans the emotional landscapes of Swift's discography. Pope's top tracks include “Cornelia Street,” “New Year's Day,” and “Karma,” alongside the heartfelt narrative of “All Too Well” (the 10-minute version) and the pulsating rhythms of “Cruel Summer.” Swift's ability to capture the highs and lows of the human experience clearly resonates with the competitive and emotional journey of the NCAA Tournament.
Yet, the coaches' playlists are not limited to pop anthems alone. A surge of appreciation for country music reveals itself, with artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney earning spots in the coaches' listening sessions. This musical diversity extends further into the realms of gospel and rock, with Jeremy Camp and Ed Sheeran making notable appearances. T.J. Otzelberger, in particular, expresses admiration for Sheeran's mastery over his guitar pedal, demonstrating the depth of musical interest that extends beyond genre boundaries.
Wide-Ranging Influences
In a culture as rich and diverse as collegiate basketball, the personal tastes of its coaches mirror this variety. John Calipari tunes into the beats of Drake, while Shaka Smart draws inspiration from the legendary 2Pac. The range of influences encompasses icons like Michael Jackson, Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z, highlighting the coaches' eclectic tastes that span decades and genres.
Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry are united in their admiration for Michael Jackson, whose timeless hits continue to inspire generations. Meanwhile, Bashir Mason expresses his eclectic taste through his love for Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z, showcasing a palette that appreciates both the classics and contemporary sounds. The influence of the Jackson family extends further, with Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo expressing their preferences for Jay-Z and the Jackson Five, respectively.
Ahead of the Tournament
Amid the backdrop of personal musical preferences, the journey towards NCAA glory continues. As the tournament progresses, No. 1 seeds UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina focus on the task at hand. UConn, in particular, aims to etch its name in history by becoming the first repeat champion since 2007. Fresh off their first Big East Tournament title since 2011 and boasting an impressive record since December 20, UConn stands as a testament to the resilience and determination that define March Madness.
The NCAA Tournament is more than just a showcase of collegiate basketball talent; it is a celebration of the cultural and personal diversity that enriches the game. As coaches guide their teams through intense competition, their musical choices provide a glimpse into the motivations and inspirations that fuel their journeys. From the poetic narratives of Taylor Swift to the enduring classics of Michael Jackson and the raw energy of 2Pac, the tournament is accompanied by a soundtrack as varied and dynamic as the game itself.
March Madness seamlessly blends sports, music, and culture, creating a unique tapestry that captures the essence of competition and camaraderie. As teams and coaches strive for supremacy on the basketball court, their diverse musical tastes underscore the personal stories and emotional landscapes that make the NCAA Tournament a truly unforgettable experience.
