Troy’s ‘Take the Stairs’ Identity Fuels Gritty March Madness Approach

Kerrington Kiel has helped shed light on the culture driving the Troy Trojans men’s basketball as they prepare for their first-round matchup in the NCAA Tournament. While Troy enters March Madness as an underdog against Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s basketball, the team’s internal mindset has become a defining factor in its success.

Troy may not match its opponents in terms of raw talent or national recognition, but its players and coaching staff have built an identity centered on toughness, discipline, and consistency. That approach has helped the Trojans remain competitive throughout the season and earn a second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.

At the heart of that identity is a simple but symbolic motto: “take the stairs.” For the Trojans, it represents a commitment to doing things the hard way, embracing effort over convenience, and maintaining a mindset that prioritizes resilience in every aspect of daily routines.

As the team enters one of the most important games of its season, that philosophy continues to shape how the Trojans prepare, compete, and define success. Kiel’s comments offer a glimpse into how deeply that mentality has been ingrained within the program.

1. A Culture Built on “Taking the Stairs”

The phrase “take the stairs” has become more than just a slogan for Troy—it has evolved into a guiding principle for the program. It reflects a broader commitment to effort, accountability, and pushing through discomfort in both practice and everyday routines. Players have fully embraced the concept, applying it not only on the court but also in their daily habits. From team travel to accommodations, the mindset is reinforced through small, consistent choices that emphasize discipline and unity. Kiel described the philosophy as a “way of life,” noting that even seemingly minor decisions are framed through the lens of toughness. By choosing the more physically demanding option whenever possible, the team reinforces its identity in tangible ways. This approach helps create a shared sense of purpose among players, aligning individual behavior with team goals. In a sport where cohesion and chemistry are critical, such a unified mindset can translate into improved performance during high-pressure situations.

2. Kiel’s Role as an Energy Player

Within this system, Kiel has emerged as a key contributor off the bench, providing energy, effort, and versatility in limited minutes. His role may not be defined by scoring, but his impact is measured through hustle plays and defensive activity. Averaging 3.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game in 16.2 minutes, Kiel embodies the type of player who thrives in a system built on effort and consistency. His willingness to embrace physical play and contribute in multiple areas aligns closely with Troy’s overall identity. Coaches value players like Kiel because they help sustain intensity when starters rest. His presence ensures that the team’s energy level does not drop, allowing Troy to maintain its competitive edge throughout games. In many ways, Kiel serves as a representation of the program’s broader philosophy. His contributions may not always appear in headline statistics, but they are essential to the team’s success and continuity.

3. Momentum Into the NCAA Tournament

Troy’s commitment to its identity played a significant role in securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year. While the Trojans experienced some inconsistency during the regular season, they found their rhythm at the right time. The team went 7-5 over its final 12 games but closed the season with a four-game winning streak. That late surge helped them defend their Sun Belt Conference title and carry momentum into March Madness. Tournament success often depends on teams peaking at the right moment, and Troy’s recent form suggests it enters the bracket with confidence. While expectations from outside observers may be modest, internal belief remains strong. Facing a higher-seeded opponent like Nebraska, Troy will rely heavily on its defensive intensity, rebounding, and collective effort. The “take the stairs” mentality will likely be tested on the national stage, where execution and resilience are crucial in single-elimination competition.