The USS Carl Vinson, an active aircraft carrier that weighs 95,000 tons and reaches just under 1,100 feet in length, has had its flight deck transformed into a makeshift stadium in 10 days. Seating for 7,000 people, which will include 4,000 troops and President Obama, has been constructed, along with two large video boards, both of which are located behind the goals.
When junior power forward John Henson was asked if the video boards could pose a problem, he replied optimistically by saying, "It was almost like you could watch yourself while you shoot [free throws], which is going to be kind of weird. But hopefully you can focus on the backboard and the rim and it will be fine."
Tar Heels head coach Roy Williams agrees that though it's an "unusual environment", both teams are familiar with playing "big-sized stages". Aside from the oddly placed video boards, changes in wind, temperature and light as the game progresses, will be elements that neither squad has experience with or has had to face in any other high profile game.
However, North Carolina has the edge in experience despite playing on a makeshift basketball court. The Tar Heels return their entire starting lineup that made it the Elite Eight last season, while the Spartans return only two players to start more than 5 games last season and have seven players who have never played a minute.
Since returning to North Carolina, Roy Williams is undefeated (5-0) against Michigan State. A record that includes a 13-point win in the 2005 Final Four and 14-point win in the 2009 national championship game. And though he recognizes the fact that the game played tonight is one that counts in the standings, he also recognizes this is an experience unlike any other that deserves to be enjoyed.
"This is a celebration," Williams said. "The basketball game, from the tipoff till the final horn, we're going to be working our tails off about the game. But every single second prior to it and as soon as the game's final horn is over with, we're thinking about hopefully putting a smile on some people's faces who represent our country and serve our country."
And the Spartans head coach, Tom Izzo, is also attempting to master the same balancing act.
"It's bigger than a game. It's bigger than North Carolina vs. Michigan State. It’s a dream come true for us because in a small, small way, we're giving a little bit back. We're recognizing the people that deserve to be recognized instead of just the athletes."
In addition to the thousands of troops and the Commander in Chief, Earvin "Magic" Johnson (Michigan State, 1977-1979) and James Worthy (North Carolina, 1979-1982) will be honorary captains for their alma maters.
Tipoff is set for 4:20 p.m. PST and midway through the first half, we will be reminded that just because an active military ship can play host to a historical basketball game and all that that entails, it is still an active military ship. And at sunset, the colors will be retired and the flag lowered.
Because today is a day to remember those that have fought for what those stars and stripes represent and to honor and celebrate each of them.
"It's unbelievable," said Harrison Barnes. "What they do and how much time they give is incredible. All the credit goes to them. [The game] is less about Michigan State and more about a tribute to what they do."
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