The NCAA Tournament isn't just a showcase of the nation's top collegiate basketball talent; it's also a surprising revelation of the musical tastes that animate its most prominent figures. This year, an array of NCAA coaches shared their favorite artists, revealing a wide assortment of preferences that underscore the diverse cultural landscape within collegiate sports. Interestingly, pop icon Taylor Swift emerges as a favorite among coaches, alongside a mix of country stars, legendary pop icons, and hip-hop pioneers.
Taylor Swift's Coaching Fan Club
Taylor Swift's widespread appeal doesn't stop at her general fan base; it extends into the hearts of NCAA Tournament coaches. Among her high-profile admirers is BYU's Mark Pope, who lists songs such as "Cornelia Street," "New Year's Day," "Karma," "All Too Well" (the 10-minute version), and "Cruel Summer" among his top favorites. These choices not only highlight Swift's lyrical prowess but also underscore the emotional resonance her music holds for listeners, including those entrenched in the competitive world of collegiate basketball.
But Swift isn't the only artist captivating the coaches. The country music genre also prominently features in their personal playlists, with artists like Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, Billy Currington, and Kenny Chesney receiving notable mentions. This preference for country music reflects a wider appreciation for storytelling through song, a trait commonly associated with country artists.
Diverse Musical Tastes
Beyond the realms of pop and country, other coaches have expressed their admiration for a broader spectrum of musical talent. Jeremy Camp finds a special place in the hearts of some coaches, while T.J. Otzelberger expresses admiration for Ed Sheeran's guitar pedal skills, highlighting the recognition of technical talent alongside lyrical and vocal prowess.
Basketball titans such as Kentucky's John Calipari and Marquette's Shaka Smart showcase their preferences for contemporary and classic hip-hop, with Calipari tuning into Drake and Smart favoring the legendary 2Pac. This blend of musical tastes not only illustrates the personal inclinations of these coaches but also the varied cultural backgrounds and influences that converge within the sport.
Luminaries of Pop and Hip-Hop
The coaches' playlists also nod to music royalty, with Michael Jackson and Jay-Z appearing as favorites. Coaches like Kevin Keatts, Leon Rice, John Groce, and Rodney Terry are Michael Jackson enthusiasts, embracing the King of Pop's timeless hits. Meanwhile, icons like Prince, Earth Wind & Fire, and Jay-Z are preferred by Wagner's Bashir Mason, showcasing an appreciation for the pioneers of pop, funk, and hip-hop.
In a similar vein, Seton Hall's Donald Copeland and Michigan State's Tom Izzo express their admiration for Jay-Z and the Jackson Five, respectively. These choices underline the timeless appeal of these artists and their profound impact on multiple generations, including those leading college basketball teams.
March Madness: A Convergence of Sports, Music, and Culture
As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, it brings to the fore not only the quest for basketball supremacy among UConn, Houston, Purdue, and North Carolina – the No. 1 seeds – but also a cultural mosaic reflective of the broader society. UConn, in pursuit of its first Big East Tournament title since 2011 and a historic repeat championship, symbolizes the high stakes of the competition.
Yet, beyond the hard-fought games, March Madness serves as a platform where sports, music, and culture intertwine. Coaches' music preferences offer a glimpse into their personalities and the themes that resonate with them off the court.
The diverse musical tastes of NCAA Tournament coaches — ranging from Taylor Swift to 2Pac, from country crooners to pop legends — underscore a rich tapestry of influences permeating college basketball. As teams clash on the court, the tournament embodies not just athletic excellence but a celebration of the varied cultural beats that pulse within the heart of collegiate sports.
