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Five things to know about Akron men's basketball ahead of 2026-27 season
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- Five things to know about Akron men's basketball ahead of 2026-27 season
The University of Akron men's basketball team opens the 2026-27 season at Louisiana at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 2.
Akron is led by first-year head coach Dustin Ford , who moved up from being an assistant when John Groce left the Zips in March to be the men's basketball coach at the College of Charleston.
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Ford was on Groce's staff for the past nine seasons at Akron as the Zips won four Mid-American Conference Tournament championships, two MAC regular-season crowns and made four NCAA Tournament appearances over the last five seasons.
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) is mobbed by teammates after his game winner to secure the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce plays up to the cameras as he accepts the Mid-American Conference championship after beating the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott hugs his family after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) reacts at the end of the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks for a layup against Toledo Rockets forward Jaylan Ouwinga (32) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott catches a piece of confetti during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
The Akron Zips men’s basketball team celebrates after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) shoots a three against the Toledo Rockets during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Toledo Rockets center Austin Parks (25) throws down a dunk between Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) and guard Evan Mahaffey (12) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) shoots against a pair of Toledo defenders during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) battles for the ball against Toledo Rockets guard Kyler Vanderjagt (4) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) celebrates as Akron comes back during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron guard Tavari Johnson celebrates with teammates after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce gives an official an earful during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) celebrates after a three during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
An Akron cheerleader performs during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Evan Mahaffey (12) puts up a shot during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship against the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks to the basket for a layup over Toledo Rockets guard Kyler Vanderjagt (4) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) and Toledo Rockets guard Mynor Strong (5) fights for the ball during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) looks for a layup ahead of Toledo Rockets guard Leroy Blyden Jr. (2) and center Austin Parks (25) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) celebrates after a three during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship against the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) controls the ball against Toledo Rockets guard Will James Jr. (11) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Toledo Rockets forward Sean Craig (7) and Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) fight for the ball during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
An Akron Zips player shows off his section of net after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) shoots over Toledo Rockets guard Will James Jr. (11) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) celebrates with guard Zach Halligan after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce celebrates his third consecutive Mid-American Conference championship win with Sandy Hamad at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson cuts down the net after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) is mobbed by teammates after his game winner to secure the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) is mobbed by teammates after his game winner to secure the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips head coach John Groce plays up to the cameras as he accepts the Mid-American Conference championship after beating the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott hugs his family after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) reacts at the end of the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks for a layup against Toledo Rockets forward Jaylan Ouwinga (32) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott catches a piece of confetti during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
The Akron Zips men’s basketball team celebrates after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) shoots a three against the Toledo Rockets during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Toledo Rockets center Austin Parks (25) throws down a dunk between Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) and guard Evan Mahaffey (12) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) shoots against a pair of Toledo defenders during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) battles for the ball against Toledo Rockets guard Kyler Vanderjagt (4) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) celebrates as Akron comes back during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron guard Tavari Johnson celebrates with teammates after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips head coach John Groce gives an official an earful during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) celebrates after a three during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
An Akron cheerleader performs during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Evan Mahaffey (12) puts up a shot during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship against the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks to the basket for a layup over Toledo Rockets guard Kyler Vanderjagt (4) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) and Toledo Rockets guard Mynor Strong (5) fights for the ball during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) looks for a layup ahead of Toledo Rockets guard Leroy Blyden Jr. (2) and center Austin Parks (25) during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) celebrates after a three during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship against the Toledo Rockets at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) controls the ball against Toledo Rockets guard Will James Jr. (11) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Toledo Rockets forward Sean Craig (7) and Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) fight for the ball during the second half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
An Akron Zips player shows off his section of net after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) shoots over Toledo Rockets guard Will James Jr. (11) during the first half of the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) celebrates with guard Zach Halligan after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips head coach John Groce celebrates his third consecutive Mid-American Conference championship win with Sandy Hamad at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Mid-American Conference championship photos, Akron Zips vs. Toledo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson cuts down the net after winning the Mid-American Conference championship at Rocket Arena, March 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
In total, Ford spent the past 18 seasons as an assistant coach on Groce's staff, with a four-year stint at Ohio University and a five-year stint at Illinois before Akron . Groce and Ford led Ohio to two MAC Tournament championships, two NCAA Tournament appearances and a run to the Sweet Sixteen in 2012, and guided Illinois to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2013.
Here are five things to know about the Akron men's basketball team :
Akron Zips’ Evan Mahaffey (12) shoots during a Mid American Conference men’s basketball game against NIU, March 6, 2026, at James A Rhodes Arena in Akron, Ohio.
Who is on the Akron men's basketball roster?
Akron has seven transfers — redshirt senior guard Tahj Staveskie, senior guard Ty Pence, graduate guard Kamrin Oriol, redshirt freshman guard Exavier Wilson, junior forward Colin White, senior forward Buddy Hammer Jr. and redshirt senior center Max Burton.
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The Zips have two freshmen — guard RJ Jones and forward Devan Christion.
Akron returns four lettermen with game experience from last season — graduate wing Evan Mahaffey, redshirt junior wings Marvin Musiime-Kamali and Zach Halligan and redshirt senior forward Halil "Chabi" Barre.
The Zips also return three players who practiced with the team, but did not appear in games last season — redshirt freshmen guards Tai Perkins and Josh Henderson and redshirt junior guard Cody Head.
"I want us being aggressive," Ford said on Oct. 27 after host Akron won 92-76 over Youngstown State University in an exhibition at Rhodes Arena. "I'm not going to split hairs with guys on what shots we're taking. What is going to be mandatory is when the ball is shot, go rebound it. When the other team gets the ball, get your ass back and play defense, guard somebody. Talk on defense.
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"I'm not gonna debate what a good shot and what a bad shot is. We want to play with pace. We want to be aggressive."
The eligibility of Mahaffey and Oriol is still not a certainty, although an Oct. 29 order filed by the Ohio Supreme Court kept them available to play by preserving a previous ruling made earlier in October. A final ruling is expected soon.
Akron Zips head coach John Groce celebrates after a foul during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Kent State Golden Flashes in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Cian Medley (1) looks to the basket against Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) and guard Shammah Scott (1) guard Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) brings down a rebound against Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rayvon Griffith (0) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1)makes a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) celebrates after making a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce surveys the court during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) looks for a layup ahead of Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) is fouled by Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) shoots over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Jahari Williamson (25) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) celebrates after a three during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes head coach Rob Senderoff reacts to a call during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Akron Zips in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) reach for a loose ball during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Magnus Entenmann (14) looks to pass against Akron Zips wing Marvin Musiime-Kamali (23) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron cheerleaders perform during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) has the ball knocked away by Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Jahari Williamson (25) shoots during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rayvon Griffith (0) eyes down the ball against Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) moves across the court against Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) shoots a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) looks to the basket against a pair of Akron defenders during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) and Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and guard Eric Mahaffey (4) reach for a rebound during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) gets a pass off around Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) reaches for the ball over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) looks to the basket over Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
The Akron men’s basketball team celebrates after beating Kent State in an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips head coach John Groce celebrates after a foul during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Kent State Golden Flashes in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips head coach John Groce celebrates after a foul during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Kent State Golden Flashes in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Cian Medley (1) looks to the basket against Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) and guard Shammah Scott (1) guard Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) brings down a rebound against Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rayvon Griffith (0) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1)makes a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) celebrates after making a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips head coach John Groce surveys the court during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) looks for a layup ahead of Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) is fouled by Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) shoots over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Jahari Williamson (25) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) celebrates after a three during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes head coach Rob Senderoff reacts to a call during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Akron Zips in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) reach for a loose ball during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Magnus Entenmann (14) looks to pass against Akron Zips wing Marvin Musiime-Kamali (23) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron cheerleaders perform during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) has the ball knocked away by Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Jahari Williamson (25) shoots during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rayvon Griffith (0) eyes down the ball against Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) moves across the court against Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) shoots a three over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Morgan Safford (8) looks to the basket against a pair of Akron defenders during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) and Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and guard Eric Mahaffey (4) reach for a rebound during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) gets a pass off around Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) reaches for the ball over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Rob Whaley Jr. (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
Kent State Golden Flashes forward Delrecco Gillespie (23) looks to the basket over Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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Akron Zips vs. Kent State, MAC basketball tournament semifinal photos
The Akron men’s basketball team celebrates after beating Kent State in an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 13, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Who is off the Akron men's basketball roster?
Akron bid farewell to Shammah Scott, Tavari Johnson, Amani Lyles, Bowen Hardman, Eric Mahaffey, Sharron Young, Ognjen Stankovic, Rich Brisco and Conner Groce.
Scott, a two-time MAC Sixth Man of the Year, is playing in the NBA G League with the Texas Legends. Johnson and Lyles, both All-MAC first team players last season, transferred to Charleston and Cincinnati, respectively, and are subject to the same Ohio Supreme Court order while awaiting a final decision.
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Also transferring out were Eric Mahaffey (Cincinnati), Young (Western Kentucky), Stankovic (Manhattan), Brisco (Rider) and Conner Groce (Charleston).
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks to the basket for a layup ahead of Buffalo Bulls guard Derrick Talton Jr. (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) tries to dunk the ball against Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) topples over Buffalo Bulls guard Kyle Jones (12) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) shoots over Buffalo Bulls guard Noah Batchelor (1) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) tries to keep the ball in play ahead of Buffalo Bulls guard Derrick Talton Jr. (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce gives a look of disapproval during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) celebrates with forward Amani Lyles (0) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Buffalo Bulls in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) hangs on the rim after a dunk during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) drives to the bucket against Buffalo Bulls guard Noah Batchelor (1) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) throws down a dunk during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) fouls Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) makes a pass around Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and wing Marvin Musiime-Kamali (23) reach for a rebound against Buffalo Bulls guard Kyle Jones (12) and forward Ezra McKenna (13) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) attempts a shot over Buffalo Bulls guard Ryan Sabol (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) drives ahead of Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) attempts a shot over Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips head coach John Groce has a word with his team before an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) looks to the basket under Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) reaches for a rebound against Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) looks for a layup during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks to the basket for a layup ahead of Buffalo Bulls guard Derrick Talton Jr. (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) looks to the basket for a layup ahead of Buffalo Bulls guard Derrick Talton Jr. (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) tries to dunk the ball against Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) topples over Buffalo Bulls guard Kyle Jones (12) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) shoots over Buffalo Bulls guard Noah Batchelor (1) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Sharron Young (3) tries to keep the ball in play ahead of Buffalo Bulls guard Derrick Talton Jr. (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips head coach John Groce gives a look of disapproval during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) celebrates with forward Amani Lyles (0) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against the Buffalo Bulls in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) hangs on the rim after a dunk during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) drives to the bucket against Buffalo Bulls guard Noah Batchelor (1) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) throws down a dunk during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Eric Mahaffey (4) fouls Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) makes a pass around Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) and wing Marvin Musiime-Kamali (23) reach for a rebound against Buffalo Bulls guard Kyle Jones (12) and forward Ezra McKenna (13) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Bowen Hardman (15) attempts a shot over Buffalo Bulls guard Ryan Sabol (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) drives ahead of Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Tavari Johnson (5) attempts a shot over Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips head coach John Groce has a word with his team before an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) looks to the basket under Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips forward Amani Lyles (0) reaches for a rebound against Buffalo Bulls center Tim Oboh (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
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MAC basketball tournament quarterfinal photos, Akron Zips vs. Buffalo
Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) looks for a layup during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarterfinals of the MAC Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena, March 12, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal)
Who will be the Akron men's basketball starters?
Staveskie, Pence, Barre, White and Evan Mahaffey started in the exhibition against YSU. Staveskie totaled 28 points, five assists, five rebounds and five steals in 26 minutes. Evan Mahaffey contributed 18 points, six rebounds and two assists in 30 minutes. Oriol scored 18 points in 24 minutes as a reserve.
"I felt great," Staveskie said. "It's easy to play with a group of guys like this. We were talking about it out there, like in transition, everybody can pass, dribble and shoot. So, I can get off it [the basketball] and then go get it back and not even worry about scoring. A lot of my points come off of these guys."
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Ford said Staveskie "clearly is a really good player and I'm really, really glad he's here."
"I love him," Ford said of Staveskie. "Everybody nowadays says they want to be coached hard and held accountable, Tahj does want to be coached hard and held accountable. When you coach him hard and hold him accountable he doesn't give you an excuse. … Tahj is talented. He's like the other guards we've had here that are capable shot-makers, playmakers, big-shot makers."
Hammer, Perkins and Musiime-Kamali also played double-digit minutes as reserves.
"I think we got probably 7-8 guys that have earned the right to start in some capacity," Ford said. "I think that it'll vary night to night, depending on matchups and who we're playing, but that's always hard early in the year, man, trying to find rotations."
Akron Zips guard Zach Halligan looks to pass against Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson in the first half of an NCAA Tournament first-round game, March 20, 2026, in Tampa.
Akron men's basketball players dealing with injuries
Ford said Burton has been sidelined for six weeks with an ankle injury, Henderson is dealing with a lower body injury and Halligan is dealing with a foot injury.
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"Halligan was more of a precaution," Ford said. "He could have played [against YSU], but clearly with it being a scrimmage and he didn't play for three to four days. I didn't want to throw him out there because Zach's the type of kid as we all know and we've been around, he is a tough kid. He's a full go all the time and I didn't want him being out there. … He will be ready to go [Monday] for sure."
Akron Zips wing Evan Mahaffey (12) dunks over Kent State Golden Flashes guard Quinn Woidke (6) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game at the M.A.C. Center, Feb. 27, 2026, in Kent, Ohio.
Akron men's basketball transitions from John Groce to Dustin Ford
Evan Mahaffey said "I love the passion that we play with" and that "this is a Ford team."
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"How hard we play," Mahaffey said. "How we practice. Diving on loose balls, rebounding the heck out of the ball. That's the type of energy that I think you'll be able to see from this team day in and day out.
"… Ford had such a big role last year. A lot of our baseline stuff is similar to the things that he taught us and stuff like that, but I think there's a lot more profanity I could say coming out. I think the intensity that he has day in and day out is very consistent. Honestly, that's one of the reasons I'm so excited because I love the passion that he coaches with. It's like he's out there with you, especially somebody that played in the MAC at OU. He played at the Division I level in this conference. It's awesome having a coach like that."
Michael Beaven can be reached by email at mbeaven@thebeaconjournal .
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Five things to know about Akron men's basketball ahead of 2026-27 season
