By Jack Doyle

Of the Gleaner

At first glance, John Sulentic does not look like an enthusiast of musical acts such as BROCKHAMPTON, Kanye West, Vince Staples and Frank Ocean.

If you saw him play basketball, you would not think that he is the most knowledgeable person at Wahlert regarding the history of the game.

Sulentic doesn’t care about your labels that you have for him and never will. The junior is one of the more intriguing figures in the halls at Wahlert; a lot of people may just not realize it.

Sulentic’s immense love for all things Kanye West may come as a surprise. He doesn’t have time for your “normie” Kanye songs such as “All of the Lights” or “Stronger.” He goes for more obscure tracks like, “We Don’t Care” or “Get Me Gone.” Kanye’s most recent releases have stirred up a frenzy on social media through the politically-charged “Ye vs The People” and the downright weird “Lift Yourself.” Sulentic enjoyed both.

“There’s a deeper meaning to both songs. You can’t just take what’s on the surface. You have to dig deeper. I think that’s the case for most Kanye songs,” said Sulentic.

As for his general taste in music, Sulentic says, “It’s varied. I like rap music, but I like it when it’s more orchestral and meaningful. Save Lil’ Pump and Smokepurpp for everyone else, I’ll take Vince Staples, Childish Gambino and BROCKHAMPTON. It isn’t just rap though. I’m a fan of the Swedish band Biffy Clyro, and, of course, the Red Hot Chili Peppers because they’re the best.”

Besides his musical tastes, Sulentic is an avid follower of the NBA. His favorite team is the now defunct Vancouver Grizzlies, who were disbanded April 18, 2001, four days before his birth.

As for his current favorites, he is a Denver Nuggets fan, his favorite player being Serbian phenom-center Nikola Jokic. He likes to watch an unselfish brand of basketball and would much prefer seeing a crafty Jokic pass over a thunderous dunk.

Sulentic has a philosophy for those who dislike the NBA.

“You can’t just watch the regular season NBA games because they aren’t as fun to watch. The key is to follow the story lines and get to know the players well, and then it turns almost into a reality TV show, except the players actually are trying to win,” said Sulentic.

Sulentic may be a figure of ambiguity for some in the halls of Wahlert, but the reality is that there is plenty of depth to his 6’2 skinny frame. Perhaps the next time where you need a song of a different beat or style, consult Sulentic, and while you’re at it, argue with him about just about anything. Through that you may just find the thoughtful, sarcastic and witty individual that many have come to know and appreciate.