USA - A Veterans Day game never to be forgotten

SAN DIEGO (NCAA) - A true sporting spectacle took place in American college basketball on Friday night when the North Carolina Tar Heels took on Michigan State.

The game was played on an aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, on Veterans Day.

The much-hyped game featuring the top-ranked Tar Heels and traditional powerhouse Michigan State had everyone watching, including United State President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.

Both teams had camouflage design jerseys with the letters U.S.A. on the back instead of their names.

It was a lot to take in for UNC freshman James McAdoo, who played for the United States at the 2010 U17 FIBA World Championship.

"It's an out of body experience," he said.

"It's so surreal. You take yourself out of the situation and look at it, and you're so thankful for how life works.

“There are thousands of other kids playing at colleges around the nation who will never get this opportunity. And I did it in my first game.

“It makes you even more thankful, and it makes you even more hungry."

President Obama, who sat in the front row at midcourt to take in the action, also spoke about the importance of the event during the game.

"First of all, we want to say thanks to all our veterans,” he said.

“The Carl Vinson, you’ve got 5,000 people who serve on this shape, do outstanding work all around the world. For us to let them unwind a little bit, but also celebrate their incredible accomplishments, it's a great treat."
                      
After the game, which Carolina won 67-55, players presented their jerseys to servicemen who were in attendance.

The Tar Heels coaching staff wore cargo trousers and combat boots.

If ever a result didn't seem to matter, it was this one, a game that tipped off at dusk and was played on an active flight deck.

"It's going to be a hell of a memory maker for all of us,” Michigan State Tom Izzo said.

“I think that everybody that was here probably enjoyed it…

“Hopefully it benefits our military and veterans that have done so much for us."

Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson played for North Carolina and Michigan State, respectively, and led them to NCAA titles.

Each was made an honorary captain for the game.

FIBA