Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel today made a friendly wager with Ann Arbor, Michigan Mayor Christopher Taylor on the outcome of Saturday’s NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Final Four matchup between Chicago’s Loyola University and University of Michigan.

“Chicago is united behind the Loyola Ramblers and their most devout fan, Sister Jean, and we continue to be inspired and amazed by this remarkable team,” said Mayor Emanuel. “The Ramblers have defied the odds and proven themselves at every step on the road to the Final Four. We are confident we will be celebrating their trip to the NCAA Finals with deli food from Zingerman’s, but in the unlikely event the Wolverines advance we are prepared to send some legendary Manny’s corned beef to Ann Arbor.”

The Mayors will wager local delicacies on the outcome of the game, and the losing Mayor will also make a donation to a charity of the winning Mayor’s choice: Chicago’s Becoming a Man (BAM) youth mentoring program or the Jim Toy Community Center, Ann Arbor’s leading LGBTQ resource for advocacy, education, and community.

If the Loyola Ramblers are victorious, Mayor Taylor will send Michigan’s famous Zingerman’s Georgia Reuben sandwich, his favorite. If the Michigan Wolverines win, Mayor Emanuel will send corned beef and pastrami from Chicago’s beloved Manny’s Deli.

“Ann Arborites everywhere are so proud of the great University of Michigan and the Wolverines’ exciting march through the tournament,” said Mayor Taylor. “With buzzer-beating offense, tenacious defending, and an infectious spirit, Coach Beilein’s team of dedicated student-athletes exemplifies the best of college athletics. Whether Mayor Emanuel celebrates a Rambler win or I revel in a Michigan victory, both of our communities have been enlivened by these two remarkable teams. That said . . . I wonder which mustard I’ll choose for my Manny’s. Go Blue!”

The Loyola Ramblers last made a trip to the Final Four in 1963, 55 years ago. The Ramblers lineup includes Chicago Public Schools graduates Donte Ingram from Simeon High School, and Lucas Williamson from Whitney Young.

Loyola and Michigan are set to face off at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas tomorrow at 5:09 PM CT.

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