Every athlete has a go-to playlist that they listen to before they take the field, step on the court, or dive into the pool. In Pregame Playlist we bring Stanford student-athletes' playlists to you! Hear from redshirt junior Jaden Abas, as he shared his own pre-match playlist ahead of this weekend, when the Cardinal hosts the Pac-12 Championships in Maples Pavilion.
GoStanford.com: What're your favorite songs on your playlist these days?
Jaden Abas: "My favorite pre-match playlist song is 'Imma Star' by Jeremiah. This song puts me in the mindset to take the stage and perform to my utmost potential. It sort of makes me feel like I am in a movie with all eyes on me."
GS: How would you describe your pre-match mindset, and how does this playlist help you achieve that space mentally?
JA: "My pre-match mindset is calm but energized. I try to be a calm laser out there, sharp and accurate with my skills. I feel dangerous and untouchable. This playlist is filled with all my favorite songs that help me 'feel myself,' putting me in a positive mental state."
GS: Are there any unique stories behind what any of these songs mean to you?
JA: "One of the songs on the playlist is by an artist from my hometown of San Diego who goes by the name of 'Mayko.' I first heard his song titled 'Nothing' during a concert in the popular San Diego nightclub NOVA. When I first heard it I felt alive."
GS: How does your music taste stack up to that of your teammates?
JA: "My music taste is pretty similar to the other guys on the team. However I do think I have a unique mesh of traditional hip-hop & rap, EDM, rock and R&B."
GS: Do you revisit any of these songs after an individual or dual win, or is this mostly a pre-match type vibe?
JA: "I revisit these songs on a daily basis! They are my favorite songs and I listen to them pre-match because I like the way they make me feel. If I am having a more mellow day these songs will stay off my headphones but if there is a lot of energy you BEST BELIEVE I will be bumpin' these bops."
Check out Jaden's full playlist below.