Detroit's Success

As Detroit crumbles under the pressure of America’s failing auto industry, the city was more than happy to host this year’s final four in hopes that the event would breathe some life into its depleted economy. And although Michigan State ultimately failed to capitalize on the energy of the hometown crowd in its loss to North Carolina, the Spartans did manage to topple UConn before 72,000 fans at Ford Field. Applauding the city’s enthusiasm, executive vice president Tom Jernstedt noted that Detroit did a “marvelous job” hosting the tourney. “From the drivers in the buses and the fans, and the people in this building and on the street—the hospitality and genuine enjoyment and excitement about this competition being here is very evident.”