Among the former Tar Heels in the crowd: Tyler Hansbrough, Vince Carter, Marvin Williams, Bobby Frasor, Scott Williams, Melvin Scott. James Worthy served as the team's ceremonial captain.

The unique conditions caused the expected shooting difficulties, with the teams making only 13 of their 22 free throws in the first half, but there were other complications as well. Michigan State freshman Branden Dawson was injured when he slipped in a wet spot in the first half. The side of the court in front of the North Carolina bench continued to require attention, perhaps because of condensation in the cool night air.

All three of the game's officials - Tony Greene, Mike Reed and James Breeding - were retired military.

North Carolina baseball coach Mike Fox was among the attendees, but he wasn't scouting out a potential baseball game aboard an aircraft carrier.

"It'd probably be quite some time," Fox said. "The 1,098 feet long is good enough, but the 400-foot width would play a factor I'm afraid."

Luke DeCock