For many, music is a push factor against the demons of anxiety and nervousness before a competition. For others, a pre-game playlist is a "Secret sauce" used to stir up and release whatever is channeled within them in an effort to lead their team to victory.
Today we begin a new series titled "Gameday Playlist Vibes," which feature must-play pre-game songs from rising basketball stars in New Jersey. Next up is Cherokee wing Ava Therien. Enjoy the jams from the junior guard below.
As told to Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
Thoughts on the way to a game:
On the bus to your game sometimes your nerves can take over. I think you should start to focus on the bus ride over to your game. Music is a great tool to help you focus and calm you down. Listening to the right songs before any game helps. On the bus ride I don’t really talk. I just put in my headphones and try and prepare for the game mentally. I don’t get like to get to hyped before a game. I like to listen to mellow music to try and calm my nerves, especially before a really big game.
Journey - Don’t stop believing
Thoughts: My sister and I would listen to this song together every car ride on the way to home games. It symbolizes not giving up and trying your hardest
Strike it up - Black Box
Thoughts: This one has a good beat. i always listen to this track in the locker room as I get ready for the game.
Taylor swift- I Did Something Bad
Thoughts: Listen to this on the bus. This track has a good beat to it. I love that the song isn’t too hype or too mellow.
Sober up - The Click
Thoughts: The song is a mellow, yet upbeat song
Shakira- Hips Don't Lie