Vegas might favor the Tar Heels, but Zags fans confident

PHOENIX - When it comes to predicting the outcome of tonight’s game, there’s the Las Vegas line and then there’s the Zags line.

And if you want the straight dope on the Zags line, you have to go where the Zags are. Here in Phoenix, hours before the NCAA championship game, that means a visit to the downtown Westin Hotel.

Asked to predict tonight’s final score, a seated man with gray hair got a serious look on his face, then came out with it.

“GU 73, NC 67,” he said.

Seems plausible.

May I get your name, sir?

“I’m Tommy Lloyd’s dad,” he said.

The younger Lloyd is a GU assistant coach.

Kyle Wiltjer, former Gonzaga star and current NBA benchwarmer, pondered the question. Then he made his forecast.

“I’ll say 65-60, Zags on top.”

GU fan Bryant Savage offered 68-62, with the good guys coming out ahead.

What’s your connection to Gonzaga?

“No connection. I was just in town. I was here for the Rockets/Suns game (NBA).”

Scott Simpson, who attended GU’s law school, predicted Gonzaga would win tonight by a score of 78-71.

Gary VanTol went with 74-73, Zags.

His wife, Chrissy, predicted an 82-71 victory.

Scott Bierlink was walking through the lobby when he was drafted into participation in this highly scientific sports survey.

“Zags, 75-71.”

Asked if he was an alum, he said no. “I’m just a fan. I actually went to Whitworth. Go, Zags!’

Zeke Brown, another GU fan from Spokane, scrunched up his face and then predicted 71-68.

Zags, of course.

If anyone thinks North Carolina is going to win tonight, they must be staying at a different hotel.