College basketball is as much about strategy and skill as it is about the traditions that shape team culture. For Mark Pope’s Wildcats, game day isn’t just about taking to the court—it’s a culmination of rituals and superstitions that define the team’s unique personality. From quirky pregame habits to bonding moments steeped in tradition, these rituals not only entertain but also build camaraderie and focus. Let’s dive into the wild world of the Wildcats and the routines that make them one of the most distinctive teams in college hoops.
The Power of the Lucky Socks
For Wildcats fans, the story of the “lucky socks” is legendary. It started with one of Coach Mark Pope’s early games, when a standout performance by a player coincided with a pair of eccentric, brightly colored socks. Since then, the team has embraced the tradition. Before every game, players are allowed to wear socks of their choice, but many swear by their “game-winners,” claiming the right pair gives them an edge. The socks range from neon patterns to comic-book designs, adding a splash of personality to game day.
The “Pope’s Playlist” Warm-Up
Mark Pope is known not just for his basketball IQ but also for his DJ-worthy pregame playlists. Before every home game, the Wildcats’ locker room echoes with a carefully curated mix of music. Pope believes the right songs set the tone for the game, blending high-energy beats with motivational lyrics. Players contribute to the playlist each season, ensuring a mix that represents the team’s evolving personality. A perennial favorite? Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” which has become an unofficial anthem for the team and their fans.
The Talisman of Triumph
Every team needs a mascot, but the Wildcats go one step further with their unofficial talisman: a stuffed wildcat named “Winston.” Winston’s journey began when a fan gifted the plush mascot to the team during a particularly challenging season. Since then, Winston has traveled with the team to every game, even earning his own locker. Before tipoff, each player taps Winston for luck—a gesture that has become a signature pregame ritual.
Game Day Grub: Superstitious Snacks
Nutrition plays a key role in any athlete’s performance, but for the Wildcats, food is also about superstition. Mark Pope is notorious for insisting on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as a pregame snack, claiming they’re the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and nostalgia. Each player has their own twist—some prefer crunchy peanut butter, while others swear by grape jelly for good luck. The ritual has inspired countless memes from fans and even opposing teams.
The Silent Stretch
While most of the Wildcats’ pregame rituals are full of energy and fun, the “silent stretch” offers a moment of calm. Ten minutes before they hit the court, the players and coaching staff enter a period of total silence, focusing entirely on their stretches and breathing. This quiet ritual is meant to center the team, giving them a mental reset before the intensity of the game begins. Coach Pope often uses this time to visualize the game’s key plays, a practice he encourages his players to adopt.
The Three-Point Challenge
During the final moments of warm-ups, the Wildcats partake in a lighthearted but competitive tradition: the three-point challenge. Each player, including Coach Pope, takes turns shooting three-pointers. The player who makes the most consecutive shots earns the title of “Sharpshooter Supreme” for the game. While it’s a fun way to loosen up, it also sharpens their shooting focus before the game.
Team Huddle Chant: “Wild and Free”
Every basketball team has a rallying cry, but the Wildcats’ chant, “Wild and Free,” captures their fearless spirit. As they gather in a tight huddle, the chant crescendos, building the players’ energy to a fever pitch. The phrase, coined by Coach Pope in his first season, is a reminder to play with passion and confidence—values that resonate both on and off the court.
Postgame Pizza Party (Win or Lose)
One of the most endearing Wildcats traditions is their postgame pizza party. Regardless of the outcome, the team gathers in the locker room to share a meal and reflect on the game. For Coach Pope, it’s a way to remind the players that basketball is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about the relationships they build along the way. The tradition has become a favorite among players and staff, fostering a family atmosphere that defines the team.
Fans and Their Superstitions
It’s not just the players who have rituals—Wildcats fans are equally dedicated to their game day traditions. From wearing the same jersey every game to gathering at specific watch parties, the fan base embraces its own quirky superstitions. One notable example is the “lucky nachos,” a dish sold at the Wildcats’ home arena that fans swear brings the team good fortune.
Mark Pope’s Wildcats are a team defined not just by their skill but by their personality. These game day rituals—equal parts serious and silly—reflect a culture of unity, humor, and heart. Whether it’s Winston the wildcat or the silent stretch, each tradition adds a layer of magic to the Wildcats’ game day experience. For fans, these rituals are more than entertainment; they’re a glimpse into the soul of a team that plays not just to win, but to enjoy the journey.