Michigan and North Carolina were portrayed as different playing styles, with Michigan having an "NBA–style" roster and Carolina having "the model college system." Kansas center Eric Pauley, who played both teams, stated that Michigan was "really athletic," while North Carolina is "fundamentally sound." In addition, Michigan was known for allowing freshman to get significant playing time, while also allowing their players to be more "flamoboyant" and expressive. With respect to the sophomores on the Michigan roster, coach Smith said he was "amazed at what they had done" and mentioned how they had been to two Final Fours in as many years, further stating "that's a lifetime." The Tar Heels, on the other hand, were known for being a program where upperclassmen get more of the publicity and playing time. Montross commented on North Carolina's perception and related it to how Dean Smith "won't settle for anything but the image he has," while referencing their clean shaven appearance, proper dress attire when traveling and going to dinners, and their " everything just right. Dean Smith, who had only one national championship to his credit from 1982, was viewed to have needed the game for his legacy as it would "shut up" critics. In addition, it would bring the Tar Heels to the forefront after Duke having won the previous two national championships. Meanwhile, Steve Fisher, was thought to have needed to win the title in order to vindicate to critics that he "can coach." He had previously won a national title in 1989 when he gained control of Michigan's team before the start of the NCAA Tournament. In advance of the game Smith spoke of Wolverines saying "They're quick, and Coach Fisher has done a great job getting the ball inside. They know how to pass and catch it." As the two teams met in December in the Rainbow Classic, most media commented on the game and influenced their expectations. It was noted that the game would be different as Michigan's Jackson would be expected to play more than the minute he did in December before he left the game with a dislocated shoulder. Coach Smith felt Michigan relied on Jackson defensively and noted that he has been doing well on offense as of late. Mark Rosner of Austin American–Statesman wrote that North Carolina was performing much better on offense than they were in that December matchup. Writers noted that Howard, Eric Reilly, and Webber would likely rotate on the seven–footer Montross, but Webber has the "brawn" to go against Montross. In regards to facing off and defending Montross, Webber stated "I'm not afraid of anyone." Montross spoke of Webber and his matchup saying that "Blocking shots is going to happen. He's got me. I got him." Rose was thought to have a great performance as he would need to minimize his turnovers.
