Story Courtesy of Akron Athletic Communications

CLEVELAND, Ohio - For the second straight year, the Akron men's basketball team will battle for a Mid-American Conference Tournament title after a thrilling 100-90 victory over the Toledo Rockets on Thursday.

Akron shot 55.6 percent from deep on the way to the victory that saw five Zips score in double figures.

The Zips (27-6) were led by Nate Johnson, who had 31 points, six assists, five rebounds and two blocks. N. Johnson's 31 points ties the Akron record for most points scored in a MAC Tournament game. The last player to score 31 points for the Zips in the MAC Tournament was Xavier Castaneda against Buffalo on Mar. 9, 2023. Isaiah Gray added 15 points and Tavari Johnson helped out with 15 points.

The Akron offense was very productive from downtown, pouring in 10 threes on 18 attempts. Nate Johnson was the most prolific shooter for the Zips, draining three treys in the contest.

Akron did a great job disrupting Toledo shots in the contest, coming away with five blocks. Nate Johnson's two rejections led the way individually for the Zips.

How It Happened

After jumping out to a 33-30 advantage, Akron went on an 8-0 run with 7:08 left in the first half, culminating in a bucket from Shammah Scott, to increase its lead to 41-30. The Zips then maintained that lead and entered halftime with a 52-41 advantage. Akron got a great contribution from its bench in the period, as non-starters accounted for 16 of its 52 total points.

The Zips then held on for the victory in the second half. Akron got a boost from its bench in the period, as non-starters accounted for 18 of its 48 total points.