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Coaches' Eclectic Music Choices

Coaches' Eclectic Music Choices

Coaches' Eclectic Music Choices

The NCAA Tournament, a time when basketball reaches its zenith, also unearths some fascinating tidbits about the personal tastes of those who shape the game: the coaches. Among the myriad of revelations, the standout is the universal appeal of Taylor Swift, whose songbook resonates strongly within the NCAA coaching ranks. BYU's Mark Pope, for instance, holds a particular affinity for Taylor Swift, citing tracks like "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the extended 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer" among his favorites. It's a testament to Swift's storytelling prowess and musical versatility that she finds favor in such a competitive and testosterone-fueled environment. However, the musical preferences among the cohort of NCAA coaches extend far beyond the pop realm of Swift. A notable number of coaches have shown a tendency towards country music, with artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney making the list. It’s clear that the storytelling element prevalent in country music resonates with these coaches, perhaps mirroring the narratives they craft within their teams. On the more contemporary side of the spectrum, T.J. Otzelberger expressed admiration for Ed Sheeran, particularly highlighting Sheeran's adept use of looping pedals to enrich his one-man performances. Meanwhile, Kentucky's esteemed John Calipari tunes into Drake, and Shaka Smart of Marquette shows a preference for the rap legend, 2Pac.

From Pop to Hip-Hop: A Musical Mélange

The NCAA coaches’ eclectic taste doesn’t end with pop and country; it spans a wide array of genres, showcasing a rich diversity of musical preferences. Coaches like Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry share a fondness for Michael Jackson, highlighting the enduring appeal of his music across generations. Bashir Mason revealed a preference for Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z, demonstrating an appreciation for both the funk-rock genre and contemporary hip-hop. Similarly, Donald Copeland and Tom Izzo have shown admiration for Jay-Z and the Jackson Five, respectively, further underscoring the broad musical tastes present among NCAA coaches.

The Road to the Championship

As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, the spotlight intensifies not only on the athletes but also on the strategic minds leading them—coaches whose varied musical tastes offer a glimpse into their personalities away from the court. The tournament, characterized by its unpredictability and high stakes, has placed UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina as the No. 1 seeds. With aspirations of becoming the first team to secure consecutive titles since 2007, UConn is under scrutiny, especially after clinching its first Big East Tournament title since 2011. The team has been on a remarkable run, losing just once since December 20, showcasing resilience and skill that befits a top-seeded contender.

Conclusion: A Harmony of Basketball and Music

The NCAA Tournament stands as a convergence of sports, music, and culture, embodying the essence of March Madness. The diverse musical tastes of the coaches, ranging from pop icons like Taylor Swift to the legendary Michael Jackson, and from country stalwarts to hip-hop luminaries like Jay-Z and 2Pac, mirror the varied backgrounds and strategies they bring to the game. As the tournament progresses, the blend of intense basketball action, personal stories, and cultural anecdotes like these enrich the experience for fans and participants alike, adding layers of depth to the already compelling narrative of collegiate basketball’s pinnacle event.