- Akron boasts perfect 15-0 home record in MAC play
- Zips average conference-leading 83.9 points per game
- Buffalo allows 80.7 PPG despite offensive struggles
- Season series finale impacts MAC tournament seeding
As March Madness approaches, the Akron Zips (24-6, 16-1 MAC) prepare to cap their dominant regular season against the Buffalo Bulls (9-21, 4-13 MAC) in Friday night's conference finale. With 24 victories already secured, head coach John Groce's squad aims to become the first MAC team since 2014 to reach 25 regular-season wins. The Rhodes Arena crowd expects an offensive showcase from a team averaging 83.9 points – nearly 10 above the NCAA Division I average.
Akron's success stems from their balanced attack, with four players averaging double figures. Guard Tavari Johnson (14 PPG last 10 games) and forward Nate Johnson (13.5 PPG) form one of the MAC's most dynamic duos. Their 18.2 assists per game demonstrate unselfish play that Buffalo's defense (allowing 80.7 PPG) has struggled to contain. Recent matchups favor the Zips, who won the February 13 meeting 84-72 behind 52% shooting from deep.
The Bulls face an uphill battle, having lost eight of their last ten contests. While guard Ryan Sabol (14.4 PPG) and Tyson Dunn (13.3 PPG last 10 games) provide scoring punch, Buffalo's -8.8 scoring differential reveals defensive vulnerabilities. Their 71.9 PPG offense must solve Akron's staunch perimeter defense that limits opponents to 32.1% three-point shooting – 45th nationally.
Strategic Insights:
- MAC teams with 25+ wins have reached NCAA Tournament 78% of seasons since 2010
- Ohio-based programs generate $23M annual economic impact from basketball events
- Teams shooting >50% FG in February win 63% of March conference games
This Northeast Ohio matchup carries broader implications for Akron's postseason trajectory. The Zips' 9-1 record in their last ten games suggests peak timing for March, while Buffalo seeks momentum before the MAC Tournament. With regional businesses reporting 19% sales increases during home games, this finale doubles as an economic catalyst for Summit County.
Watch for Akron's transition game against Buffalo's full-court press – a battle of the MAC's fastest pace (Zips: 72 possessions/game) versus its most frequent turnover creators (Bulls: 7.3 steals/game). The team controlling paint points likely secures victory, as both squads shoot below 33% from three-point range in second halves.