Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews UNCW cheerleader Sydney Collins

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

Last week UNCW beat Delaware 76-72 in the CAA tourney title game to earn an automatic bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Seahawks only won 7 games in 2021 but have now had 4 winning seasons in a row and are heading to the NCAA tourney for the 1st time since 2017. Earlier today HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with UNCW cheerleader Sydney Collins about being a good leader and making the NCAA tourney.

You are from Hamptonville, NC: what made you choose UNCW? I chose UNCW because I have always loved the beach. I also thought that it would be good for me to move farther away from home to get out of my comfort zone.

You are majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Real Estate: how did you choose those subjects? Business has always been the plan for me, but I did not know what I wanted to concentrate on until the school started offering real estate. I feel it is easy to figure out what you like and do not like in business school since you take so many classes from all different parts of the business world.

You are a senior: what is the post-graduation plan? I would love to stay in Wilmington after I graduate. I am still sorting out my job options, but right now I am trying to soak up every last moment of my final semester at UNCW.

You have been captain of your team the past 2 years: what is the key to being a good leader? I think the key to being a good leader is showing up everyday and letting your team know that you have their back no matter what, both in/out of practice. I also think it is very important to build a relationship with each individual on the team: figure out what drives them to be better, and be their biggest motivator throughout the process.

1 of your hobbies is reading: and book recommendations for our readers? I recently read “In Five Years” by Rebecca Serle. It is about friendship, loyalty, and understanding the nature of our destiny in this life: it is a great short read.

In the CAA tourney title game the Seahawks had a 4-PT win over Delaware to clinch the title: what was the reaction like after the final buzzer went off, and how excited is everyone on campus this week? I remember after the buzzer went off everyone ran out on the court and was jumping around and hugging. I saw so many videos of people gathered together on and off campus cheering for the guys after they won. It is so nice to know that they have so many people cheering for them: not only at the game but back home too.

Your team has won 15 of its past 17 games: has it reached a point where everyone expects the team to win every time that they step onto the court? I definitely think that there is an expectation for these guys to win. We expect a lot out of them because we see the potential this team has. However, we are there to cheer them on no matter the outcome.

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? We are very fortunate to be able to bring 12 cheerleaders to the NCAA tournament. We want to be able to represent our school/program to the best of our ability. I am so excited to have this opportunity, especially during my senior year. My team works incredibly hard and I cannot wait to cheer the team on!

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this week? None of us have ever been to Kansas before so we are excited to go explore…but honestly we are most excited to cheer on our Seahawks on Thursday night.

Any predictions for your game vs. Texas Tech on Thursday in Wichita? I think this team is going to surprise a lot of people. You can really tell how much heart these guys put into every game and I am excited to see what they do on Thursday night.

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Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews Arkansas dancer Ryan Crockett

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

Last week Arkansas lost to Mississippi 83-80 in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Razorbacks started 0-5 in conference play but are now heading back in the NCAA tourney for the 4th time in the past 5 years. Yesterday HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Arkansas dancer Ryan Crockett about having a new basketball coach and making the NCAA tourney.

You are from Jackson, MS: what made you choose Arkansas? For as long as I can remember, I have been dancing. I am classically trained in ballet so I spent most of my time training/performing: I could not imagine a life without dance. I knew I wanted to go to college and needed a school that would provide a strong education to prepare me for chiropractic school after earning my bachelor’s degree. I also wanted a school where I could continue my dance career. I tried out for the Razorback Dance Team and made it, even though I had never used poms before. The university also offered the exercise science major I was looking for. After making the dance team, I knew that Arkansas was the place for me.

You are majoring in Exercise Science: how did you choose that subject? I have always been interested in holistic medicine, specifically chiropractic care. I knew that exercise science as a major would prepare me for the intensity of chiropractic school.

You are a senior: what is the post-graduation plan? I plan to attend Parker University in Dallas to continue my academic career with the goal of becoming a chiropractor.

Your basketball team has a new coach this season: what is it like to have John Calipari as the new sheriff in town? Coach Calipari has been a breath of fresh air and has brought a sense of excitement. Starting over can be intimidating, but Coach Cal has sparked a new fire in Arkansas fans and given us an opportunity for change/growth.

What has been the highlight of the season so far: starting 11-2, Senior Night, other? Senior Night at Bud Walton Arena is a memory that I will cherish forever. That night, we beat Texas and performed during halftime. It was a special night for both me and my teammates.

The Razorbacks lost to Mississippi in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to the NCAA tourney: how exciting was it to hear your team’s name called on Selection Sunday? Excited is an understatement. Initially, I was happy that Arkansas had the opportunity to compete in such an iconic tournament. My teammates and I were thrilled at the chance to travel and support our team. I also think it is ironic that commentators say our men’s basketball team will be “dancing” in March Madness!

You were 1 of a record 14 SEC teams to make the tourney: what is it like to be part of the greatest conference in the history of the sport? I am always honored and proud to be a part of the SEC. There is nothing like this conference and I would not change it for the world.

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? Dance Team Head Coach Britney Hanson makes it a priority that every dancer on our team travels. She creates a survey for us to fill out so that we can rank where we want to travel during the season: seniors generally have priority. Based on these rankings and the number of travel opportunities, she then selects who gets to go.

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this week? The Dance Team plans to cheer on our men’s basketball team as they compete in the NCAA tournament. It is also baseball season, so Razorback Dance will be dancing on the dugouts for the first SEC series this year at Baum-Walker Stadium this weekend.

Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. Kansas in Providence? My predictions will always favor the Hogs. If they play as hard as I have seen them play then the sky is the limit!

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Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews Arkansas cheerleader Kayleigh Shortt

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

Last week Arkansas lost to Mississippi 83-80 in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Razorbacks started 0-5 in conference play but are now heading back in the NCAA tourney for the 4th time in the past 5 years. Yesterday HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Arkansas cheerleader Kayleigh Shortt about having a new basketball coach and making the NCAA tourney.

You are from Edmond, OK: what made you choose Arkansas? I chose the University of Arkansas because of the overall atmosphere at the school. Not only does it have a strong community, but also has a highly-engaged fanbase that makes any Razorback sporting event unforgettable.

You are majoring in Accounting: how did you choose that subject? I chose Accounting through my love of business/numbers/people. I have always been interested in the subject, and thanks to the Sam Walton College of Business, I have had an amazing opportunity to pursue my degree.

You are a sophomore: do you have a post-graduation plan yet? My plan is to get my Masters of Accountancy and then pass my CPA exam in order to become a certified public accountant.

Your basketball team has a new coach this season: what is it like to have John Calipari as the new sheriff in town? Having John Calipari as our head coach has started a new chapter for the Razorback legacy. He has brought new talent, energy, and joy into the University’s traditional gameday. I see Coach Cal as a very respectful and humble coach.

What has been the highlight of the season so far: starting 11-2, Senior Night, other? The highlight of the season has been watching our team come back after starting 0-5 in our conference. Watching the Razorbacks being beaten into the ground and almost losing any chance of making it into the NCAA tournament, yet persevering and showing our worth, has been truly inspiring.

The Razorbacks lost to Mississippi in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to the NCAA tourney: how exciting was it to hear your team’s name called on Selection Sunday? Hearing our team’s name called on Selection Sunday was a feeling I will never forget: it was exhilarating! It has been my dream to be able to cheer on the Razorbacks during March Madness. I would be lying if I said that I have not shed a few tears at this amazing opportunity: I have been incredibly blessed.

You were 1 of a record 14 SEC teams to make the tourney: what is it like to be part of the greatest conference in the history of the sport? It has been competitive being a part of the SEC. We are constantly on our toes for the other giants who could beat us. That is what makes the SEC the SEC: nothing beats it!

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? We decide who goes to the NCAA tournament based on age, grades, community service, and upholding Razorback Cheerleading values.

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for next week? We will hopefully get to perform some of our favorite Razorback traditions.

Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. Kansas in Providence? I believe that on Thursday the Hogs are going to show up hungry to win. After a season of many highs and lows, I know Coach Cal is going to bring a team of athletes who are determined to make a name for themselves.

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Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews Georgia Dance Dawg Kaylah Percival

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

Last week Georgia lost to Oklahoma 81-75 in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Bulldogs lost 26 games in 2022 but are now heading back in the NCAA tourney for the 1st time since 2015. Yesterday HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Georgia Dance Dawg Kaylah Percival about being a good leader and making the NCAA tourney.

You are from Suwanee, GA: what made you choose Georgia for college? I chose the University of Georgia because of its outstanding Exercise and Sport Science program, which aligned perfectly with my career goals. I was also drawn to the school’s talented dance teams and the vibrant campus atmosphere. Plus, staying close to home allowed me to have the best of both worlds: pursuing my education and passion while remaining connected to my family and support system.

You are majoring in exercise and sports science: how did you choose that subject? I chose Exercise and Sport Science because I have always been fascinated by the way the human body moves/adapts/heals. Understanding the mechanics of movement and recovery, especially in athletes, fuels my passion for helping others regain strength and mobility. This field allows me to combine my love for science with my desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives through rehabilitation.

You are a senior: what is the post-graduation plan? My post-graduation plan is to attend a graduate program for physical therapy, where I can further develop my skills and expertise in rehabilitation and athletic performance. I am currently deciding between two incredible programs that I have been accepted into, both of which align with my passion for helping others regain strength and mobility.

What has been the highlight of the season so far: starting 14-2, beating Florida last month, Senior Night, other? The highlight of the season so far was Georgia’s big win over Florida and the incredible experience of rushing the court with my teammates and the rest of the UGA student body. The energy and excitement in that moment were unforgettable, and it was amazing to celebrate such a huge victory together.

Last Wednesday the Bulldogs lost to Oklahoma in the SEC tourney but they still made the NCAA tourney as an at-large team on Selection Sunday: how excited is everyone on campus now that the team is making its 1st NCAA tourney appearance in 10 years? Everyone on campus is buzzing with excitement now that the Bulldogs have secured their first NCAA Tournament appearance in a decade. The energy is electric, and there’s a huge sense of pride in seeing the team’s hard work pay off. It is an incredible moment for the school, the fans, and the entire UGA community!

The SEC set a record on Sunday by receiving 14 bids: what is it like to be part of the best conference in the history of the sport? Being part of the SEC, especially in a historic year like this, is an incredible experience. The competition is intense, and it pushes everyone to perform at their highest level. It is amazing to be part of a conference that continues to set records and make history in the sport!

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? Our school determines who travels to the NCAA Tournament based on seniority while also ensuring there are no conflicts with exams or mandatory classes. It is an incredible honor to perform on such a big stage, and it means more for our team to have this platform to showcase our hard work, school spirit, and love for what we do in front of a national audience!

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this week? Yes! My team and I are planning to explore downtown and take in the local sights, including a visit to the Pizza Hut Museum. It is a fun way to bond, make memories, and enjoy the experience before game day!

How does it feel to be captain of the UGA Dance Dawgs, and what is your best memory of the season/dance that you and your team have performed? It is an incredible honor to serve as captain of the UGA Dance Dawgs and be recognized as a leader within this amazing program. Being able to guide and support my teammates while representing Georgia has been such a rewarding experience. One of my favorite memories this season was Senior Night when we played Vanderbilt. My team put together scrapbooks for all the seniors, and it was such a heartfelt moment that reminded me of the strong bond we have built over the years. Dancing together one last time in Stegeman Coliseum was truly unforgettable. As for my favorite performance, it has to be “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar. The song is iconic, and the energy from the crowd made it even more fun to perform. It was such a hyped routine, and we had an absolute blast bringing it to life on the court!

Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. Gonzaga in Wichita? I am expecting a thrilling game that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats. Gonzaga is a tough opponent, but I am hopeful that the Dawgs will bring the energy and pull off a big win!

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Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews SIUE dancer Emily Lindenborn

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

SIUE beat Southeast Missouri 69-48 in the OVC tourney title game to earn an automatic bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Cougars lost 21 games in 2022 but have now had 3 winning seasons in a row and are heading to the NCAA tourney for the 1st time in school history. Earlier today HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with SIUE dancer Emily Lindenborn about being a good leader and making the NCAA tourney.

You are from Morris, IL: what made you choose SIUE? I chose SIUE primarily because of the dance team. I wanted to attend a school that was close enough to my hometown, but far enough away that I would not be tempted to go home every weekend.

You are majoring in special education: how did you choose that subject? My mom is a teacher and I have always thought that it was the most amazing profession. In middle school, one of my best friends had a little brother with Down syndrome, and my friends and I volunteered during study hall to assist in the special education life skills classes. I had so much fun and learned so much from that experience. Since then, I have been passionate about becoming a special education teacher!

You are a senior: what is the post-graduation plan? After graduation, I hope to return to Morris or a nearby town to teach at an elementary school. I am excited to start my teaching career and make a difference in my community!

You are captain of the dance team: what is the key to being a good leader? As a leader, I make sure to listen to everyone’s ideas because I do not have all the answers. Dance is a team sport and success is only achieved through teamwork. I trust our coaches to lead us, and I try to serve as a bridge between the coaches and the team to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard/respected.

You are a Dallas Cowboys fan: do you think they will finally get things turned around next year? I always have hope that “this is our year”! I am really optimistic about Brian Schottenheimer’s influence on the team, and I am confident he will bring the changes we need to turn things around.

The Cougars beat Southeast Missouri in the OVC tourney title game to clinch an automatic bid to this week’s NCAA tourney: what was the reaction like when the buzzer finally went off, and how excited is everyone on campus this week? The final minute of the championship game was so exciting! The energy from the crowd, cheering for the team, was electric. When the buzzer went off, it was pure joy! Everyone was hugging, jumping, and celebrating together: we were all so thrilled for the team! They have been playing phenomenally all year and they truly deserve this opportunity.

Your team has never made the NCAA tourney before: is it more fun to dance for them this year now that they are winning more games? I have always loved dancing at basketball games, and while it is even more exciting when they win, I have always supported the team regardless. It is such an amazing experience to be a part of their journey!

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? Our school selects 12 cheerleaders to attend the tournament in Kansas, so unfortunately none of the dance team members are going this year. However, I am beyond excited to watch and cheer for our cheerleaders, knowing they have been working incredibly hard to represent us on TV. I have no doubt they will do an amazing job!

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this week? We are hosting a watch party for those who do not have to attend class, and will also be practicing all weekend in preparation for the NDA D1 Nationals in two weeks! It is be an exciting and busy time for our team.

Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. the “other” Cougars (Houston) in Wichita?! Of course I am rooting for SIUE! I hope they give their best performance and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. No matter the outcome, I know they will give it their all!

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Tourney Talk: HoopsHD interviews Georgia cheerleader Katie Boff

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Jon Teitel

Last week Georgia lost to Oklahoma 81-75 in the SEC tourney but still earned an at-large bid to this week’s NCAA tournament. The Bulldogs lost 26 games in 2022 but are now heading back in the NCAA tourney for the 1st time since 2015. Yesterday HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel got to speak with Georgia cheerleader Katie Boff about being a good podcaster and making the NCAA tourney.

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You are from Kennesaw, GA: what made you choose Georgia for college? Growing up I did gymnastics and loved going to the GymDog meets. This is where my love for Georgia began, and it only grew when I considered it for college. It was home, and I knew it. I have no words other than I was sure that I would adore this program, and it became my mission to be a part of that.

You are majoring in Public Relations with a Communications Studies minor and Sports Media Certificate: how did you choose those subjects? Being a cheerleader, I was naturally involved with many different sports, developing my adoration for the sports industry. Simultaneously, public relations was the perfect subject for my passions, since part of being a university cheerleader means being an ambassador/representative of the school. As if it were fate, UGA’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication is home to both an outstanding public relations pathway AND remarkable sports media program.

Speaking of sports media, any tips for those of us who want to be successful college basketball podcasters? I have two pieces of advice. First, make sure to have a clear objective for whatever you plan on posting. This will create a direction to always be moving towards, keeping you aligned with your true goals for the podcast. Second, set it up in a way that is enjoyable to you. Creating a space where you talk about simply what you are passionate about will keep you protected from ever feeling burned out. (P.S. You should also be consistent… even if you do not see growth at first!)

You are a senior: what is the post-graduation plan? Nothing is set in stone yet. However, I hope to move to Charleston and pursue law school! The transition between college and post-grad life can be daunting, but I am thrilled for any opportunities that come my way.

You are captain of the cheer team: what is the key to being a good leader? In the very wise words of my assistant coach Ashley Reynolds, “This is a position of service.” That is the mindset that anyone who wants to lead well must take on. To me, the opportunity to captain my team is only a chance to serve more, to take any burdens off of my teammates, and to make cheering at the University of Georgia the most enjoyable experience possible. Essentially, good leadership relies on the ability of the leader to take on the role of a servant.

What has been the highlight of the season so far: starting 14-2, beating Florida last month, Senior Night, other? Beating Florida at home last month was an experience like no other. Because of spacing, we rotate through who cheers which games, and I happened to not be cheering the Florida game. However, my dad came up to visit and we went to the game as spectators. The best word to describe the night is electric. Seeing everyone rush the court afterwards: literal chills!

Last Wednesday the Bulldogs lost to Oklahoma in the SEC tourney but they still made the NCAA tourney as an at-large team on Selection Sunday: how excited is everyone on campus now that the team is making its 1st NCAA tourney appearance in 10 years? Folks are just elated! I feel like it has been the sole topic in all of my conversations with people since Selection Sunday. The energy is high and the Bulldogs are excited!

How does your school decide who gets to go to the NCAA tourney, and what will it mean to you to see your group doing its thing in front of a national TV audience? Since this falls during a school week, the travel list is based on seniority and availability with your school schedule. Being one of six cheerleaders who traveled to Wichita, to say I am honored is an understatement. This is the last bit of cheerleading that I will do before graduating…and what a way to finish! On behalf of my team, we are immensely grateful at the gift of getting to tag-along for the ride and watch the Dawgs do what they do best. This is a true treat.

Does your squad have anything extra-special planned for this week? We are excited to get to spend time with the Dance Dawgs this week! We work closely with them underneath the Spirit umbrella, and it is always a blast to have quality time with them.

Any predictions for your game on Thursday vs. Gonzaga in Wichita? Dawgs on top: always!

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