He went on to mention Illinois, Michigan State, Ohio State, and "the team down in Madison, the red and white team," in reference to Wisconsin, as well as play tic tac toe other schools. Even though Dickinson acknowledged that Michigan "heard those NIT chants" from those fans, he made a point of reminding everyone that those teams "will be watching this on Thursday back at their cribs." Last year's meeting between Michigan and Wisconsin was marred by controversy when Juwan Howard punched a Wisconsin assistant coach and was suspended for five games following the Badgers' victory. Michigan finished the season with a record of 17-14, raising questions about whether or not the Wolverines deserved to be in the NCAA tournament for men's basketball
While some questioned Michigan's ability, the Wolverines put those concerns to rest with victories over No. 6 Colorado State and No. 3 Tennessee on the road, advancing to their second straight Sweet 16.