Akron Zips basketball continues to dominate the Mid-American Conference, securing their 13th consecutive victory in a heart-stopping 85-82 battle against Central Michigan on Saturday. Guard Nate Johnson emerged as the catalyst, delivering 18 points, seven rebounds, and three steals to cement Akron’s perfect 12-0 MAC record.
The Zips (20-5) overcame a halftime deficit through strategic second-half adjustments. A decisive 7-0 run midway through the period gave Akron their largest lead at 60-51. Our bench depth made the difference when it mattered most, said an Akron team spokesperson in post-game comments.
Key contributors included:
- Amani Lyles: 14 points on 6/8 shooting
- Shammah Scott: 13 points with 3 three-pointers
Central Michigan (11-14) fought valiantly behind Ugnius Jarusevicius’ career-best 32-point explosion. Despite his dominant double-double (10 rebounds), the Chippewas couldn’t counter Akron’s late-game execution.
We left everything on the court, but Akron’s consistency in clutch moments is why they’re undefeated, acknowledged Central Michigan coach Tony Barbee.
With this victory, Akron strengthens its position as the MAC’s top NCAA Tournament contender. The Zips’ 13-game streak now stands as the program’s third-longest since 1960. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index now projects a 92% chance of Akron securing the conference’s automatic March Madness bid.