The NCAA Tournament not only showcases the pinnacle of college basketball talent but also offers a glimpse into the eclectic musical tastes of its coaches. Surprisingly or not, Taylor Swift reigns supreme among numerous NCAA coaches' playlists, with BYU's Mark Pope leading the Swiftie charge. Pope's top Swift tracks are "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer." These selections reveal a preference for Swift's narrative-driven and emotionally rich songwriting.
Beyond the realm of pop and into the heartland of country, coaches have expressed their fondness for artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney. The inclusion of these artists highlights a leaning towards themes of love, loss, and the everyday struggles and joys of life, common in country music storytelling.
Christian music artist Jeremy Camp has also found a place in some coaches' playlists, offering a touch of spiritual and uplifting melodies. While the music scene among these basketball tacticians might seem dominated by newer hits, several coaches have showcased an appreciation for classics and musical prowess. For instance, T.J. Otzelberger expressed admiration for Ed Sheeran's guitar pedal skills, a nod to the technical aspect of musicianship that often goes unnoticed by the casual listener.
In terms of hip-hop preferences, John Calipari tunes into Drake's chart-topping hits, while Shaka Smart opts for the more politically charged lyrics of 2Pac, showcasing a variety of themes and styles that resonate with these coaches on a personal level.
The Diverse Soundtrack of NCAA's Finest
The musical preferences of NCAA coaches further diversify into legends of pop and hip-hop. Icons like Michael Jackson and Jay-Z are among the favored artists, supported by Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry, all of whom prefer the King of Pop. Michael Jackson's influence on music and culture remains unparalleled, and his inclusion here underlines the timeless appeal of his music.
Bashir Mason diverges slightly, incorporating Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, along with Jay-Z into his playlist, blending the genres of funk, soul, and contemporary hip-hop. This eclectic mix underscores the significant influence these genres and artists have had on shaping musical tastes across generations.
Moreover, Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo show a penchant for the classics, with Copeland looking to Jay-Z's modern rhythms and Izzo to the Jackson Five's soulful melodies from yesteryears. The vast range from contemporary hits back to the roots of pop and soul showcases the broad and inclusive musical landscape these coaches traverse through their playlists.
The Tournament: A Stage for Champions and Culture
As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, it's not just the moments of athletic brilliance that captivate fans but also the personal stories and preferences of the individuals leading their teams. This year, the No. 1 seeds – UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina – come into the tournament with high expectations, particularly UConn, which is eyeing its first repeat championship since 2007.
UConn's remarkable journey includes clinching its first Big East Tournament title since 2011 and sustaining just one loss since December 20, showcasing a blend of resilience and skill that mirrors the themes found in the coaches' favorite songs. Music, much like sports, involves themes of triumph, heartbreak, struggle, and celebration, making it a fitting parallel to the stories unfolding on the court.
In conclusion, the NCAA Tournament is more than just a display of top-tier college basketball; it's an event that also highlights the rich cultural diversity and personal narratives of its coaches. From country to hip-hop and pop, the music preferences of these basketball tacticians add an intriguing layer to their profiles, offering fans a glimpse into the personalities behind the strategies and game-time decisions. As March Madness progresses, it becomes a celebration not only of sports but of the music and culture that inspire and entertain us off the court.
