This game features a smaller cast of teams than later entries. From what I remember, this includes the pre-season top 25 and various other larger name programs. The players are 2D while the environment is somewhat isometric-y 3D. My best comparison is for you to think of the Paper Mario Games, especially when the orientation flips to face the other direction. There is little to the sim aspect of this game other than the actual playing of basketball. While this means you cannot find as much value in the single player experience, this game shines when playing a game or 2 with friends. Sports video games at this point in time had not yet fully committed to the most realistic simulation possible. (The limitations of the systems probably also contributed to this) Therefore you can pick up and play the game and have a lot of fun, even without knowledge of advanced controls or how the real sport works. The players have a light bouncy feel, and the game feels very fast paced compared to the final entry in the series (as of now) in NCAA '10. This game leans far more towards arcade, and if you happen to notice it in your collection or see it for really cheap at a yard sale, crack it open to play with a friend.