Akron claims second consecutive MAC Tournament title with late-game heroics

On March 15, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio, the Akron Zips faced off against the Miami (OH) RedHawks in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament Championship game. In a thrilling contest, the Zips managed to overcome an 18-point deficit to secure a narrow 76-74 victory. With only two seconds remaining, Nate Johnson made a crucial pull-up jumper that sealed the win for Akron, leading them to their second consecutive MAC title and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. During the first half of the game, Miami (OH) took the lead and extended it significantly, creating a significant challenge for Akron. After trailing by double digits, Akron made a determined comeback, narrowing the gap at halftime and continuing their resurgence in the second half. The game showcased Akron's resilience and ability to execute under pressure, culminating in a dramatic final sequence where they managed to regain the lead shortly before the game concluded. Nate Johnson’s performance was pivotal, resulting in him scoring a total of 22 points, further enhancing his status as the MAC Player of the Year. Alongside Johnson, Tavari Johnson contributed 15 points during the game, showcasing the Zips’ depth and skill. Conversely, Miami (OH)’s Peter Suder led his team with 24 points but could not prevent the Zips from claiming the championship title. This victory not only solidified Akron’s dominance in the MAC but also highlighted the brotherly rivalry between Akron’s coach John Groce and Miami (OH) coach Travis Steele, as Groce has now won four out of five meetings against Steele, his younger half-brother. The outcome of this championship game is significant, as it places Akron firmly in the national spotlight and sets the stage for their participation in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.