As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, the focus rightly shifts to the action on the court, where top-seeded teams UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina vie for dominance. However, the tournament isn't just a showcase of top-tier collegiate basketball prowess. It also reveals the diverse personal tastes and preferences of the coaches who guide these young athletes. Among the revelations this season is the surprising popularity of Taylor Swift among NCAA coaches.
Taylor Swift: The Coaches' Choice
Taylor Swift's music finds an unexpected fanbase among NCAA Tournament coaches, highlighting a blend of sports and pop culture. BYU's Mark Pope leads the Swift-enthusiast pack, citing favorites like "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the extended 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer." This varied selection underscores not only Pope's admiration for Swift's storytelling but also the eclectic tastes that pervade the coaching ranks.
A Wide Musical Spectrum
The coaches' playlists stretch far beyond Taylor Swift, embracing artists across the spectrum from country to hip hop. Popular country musicians such as Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney also receive nods, demonstrating the genre's reach in the basketball community. Additionally, Christian music artist Jeremy Camp finds favor among some coaches, showcasing the varied musical influences that play into team dynamics.
The spectrum doesn't end there. T.J. Otzelberger, for instance, expresses admiration for Ed Sheeran's exceptional guitar pedal skills, while icons of the rap and hip hop genres, such as Drake and 2Pac, are the artists of choice for John Calipari and Shaka Smart, respectively.
Broader Appeals and Influences
The NCAA coaches' playlists highlight broader musical appeals, ranging from Michael Jackson to Jay-Z, with several coaches, including Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry, choosing Michael Jackson as their preferred artist. On the other hand, Bashir Mason's choices—Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z—alongside Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo's selections of Jay-Z and the Jackson Five respectively, further illustrate the wide range of musical preferences among the coaches.
The Road to Victory
Beyond the music, the NCAA Tournament is a critical proving ground for the teams involved, with UConn aiming to clinch another title and become the first repeat champion since 2007. Their recent Big East Tournament triumph, their first since 2011, places them in a favorable position, having suffered just one loss since December 20.
This blend of sports, music, and culture creates a unique backdrop for March Madness, offering fans insights into the personalities of the men behind the strategies, the time-outs, and the motivational talks. As the tournament progresses, the rich tapestry of personal preferences and professional dedication weaves a compelling narrative of striving, achievement, and, of course, music.
Conclusion
As we gear up for the heated contests of the NCAA Tournament, it's fascinating to consider the varied influences that shape the coaches and, indirectly, their teams. From Taylor Swift to 2Pac, the eclectic tastes of these basketball luminaries reflect a diverse and inclusive culture that transcends the boundaries of the game. As teams battle it out on the court, the harmonies of personal choice and professional excellence underscore a tournament that is as much about the human spirit as it is about athletic achievement.
