Before every basketball or football game, players have their own personal pre-game playlists. Music tastes vary; some might listen to R&B, rap, hip-hop, trap, or even country. Most basketball and football players, however, choose rap and R&B to get in the zone and build confidence before tip-off or kickoff. The strong beats and powerful lyrics help them lock in, get hyped, and mentally prepare for a win. For many athletes, these playlists are more than just music; they’re a crucial part of their pre-game routine. The right songs help players focus, calm nerves, and boost energy levels. Some use music to visualize plays or imagine themselves succeeding on the court or field. Others rely on it to create a mindset of confidence and determination that carries through every moment of the game. Music, in many ways, sets the tone for performance, helping athletes enter a zone where they can give their best effort.
Dylan Branson, a freshman who plays on Woodford County’s football team, likes to listen to artists like NBA YoungBoy, Lil Baby, Baby Chiefdoit, and King Von before games. All of these artists are known for their strong beats, confident lyrics, and energy that can get any player ready to compete. Dylan says their music helps him focus, stay confident, and bring the right attitude onto the field. Listening to his playlist is part of his pre-game routine, helping him mentally prepare for every play and stay in the zone. The music also pumps him up, giving him the motivation to push through tough moments during the game. For Dylan, the right playlist isn’t just background noise, it’s a key part of getting ready to perform at his best.
Noah Oney is a junior who plays basketball for Woodford Co. high school. Noah listens to artists like NBA YoungBoy, Gunna, and Rod Wave before his games. He uses YoungBoy and Gunna to get hyped and energized, then switches to Rod Wave to calm his mind and focus before tip-off. Music helps Noah get into the right mental state, blocking out distractions and building confidence on the court. After the game, he likes to listen to Drake, Future, and Young Nudy to relax and unwind, reflecting on his performance. Noah says that his playlist not only motivates him but also sets the mood for how he approaches each game, making music an important part of his routine.
Saving the best for last, starting WR and FS at Woodford County, and my favorite football player, my twin brother #2 Jordan Holman. Before Jordan goes on the field and does his big one for the win, he likes to listen to his pre-game playlist. Jordan listens to NBA Youngboy, King Von, Vonoff1700,and Lil Durk . Jordan always does his best on the field when he listens to his playlist before the game, especially when it comes to the teams they played last year and lost to. Jordan’s pregame playlist motivates him to do his best on the field.
These players show that they perform their best when their playlists are part of their routine. Music sets the tone for competition, helping athletes lock in, focus, and step into the game ready to give everything they have. In the end, these playlists become a powerful tool that shapes their performance, boosts their mental preparation, and sets them up for greatness each time they compete.
