25 Facts About Akron Basketball

Akron Basketball: A Rich History

Akron Basketball has a storied past filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From its early days to its current status, the team has made a significant impact on college basketball.

1. The Akron Zips: The team is known as the Akron Zips, a nickname derived from "zippers," a popular rubber overshoe made by the B.F. Goodrich Company in the 1920s.

2. Founding Year: The basketball program was established in 1901, making it one of the oldest in the country.

3. First Coach: The first coach of the Akron Zips was Frank Haggerty, who led the team from 1901 to 1906.

Memorable Seasons and Achievements

Over the years, Akron Basketball has had several standout seasons and notable achievements that have cemented its place in college basketball history.

4. First Winning Season: The team had its first winning season in 1919, finishing with a record of 11-4.

5. NCAA Tournament Appearances: Akron has made four appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with their first coming in 1986.

6. MAC Championships: The Zips have won the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament three times, in 2009, 2011, and 2013.

7. NIT Appearances: Akron has participated in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) five times, showcasing their competitive spirit.

Notable Players and Coaches

Akron Basketball has been home to many talented players and coaches who have left an indelible mark on the program.

8. Joe Jakubick: One of the most prolific scorers in Akron history, Jakubick scored 2,583 points during his career from 1980 to 1984.

9. Romeo Travis: A standout player who later played professionally, Travis was a key figure in Akron's success in the mid-2000s.

10. Keith Dambrot: As head coach from 2004 to 2017, Dambrot led the Zips to unprecedented success, including three MAC Tournament titles.

Home Court and Fan Support

The home court and fan base of Akron Basketball play a crucial role in the team's success and overall atmosphere.

11. James A. Rhodes Arena: The Zips play their home games at the James A. Rhodes Arena, also known as "The JAR," which has a seating capacity of 5,500.

12. Rowdy Fans: Akron's fans are known for their passionate support, creating an electric atmosphere at home games.

13. Student Section: The student section, known as the "AK-Rowdies," is particularly energetic, often leading cheers and chants.

Rivalries and Key Matchups

Rivalries and key matchups add excitement and intensity to Akron Basketball's schedule each season.

14. Kent State Rivalry: The rivalry with Kent State, known as the "Wagon Wheel Challenge," is one of the most heated in the MAC.

15. Ohio University: Games against Ohio University are always highly anticipated, with both teams often competing for top spots in the conference.

16. Cleveland State: Another notable rivalry is with Cleveland State, adding to the competitive spirit of the team.

Community Involvement and Impact

Akron Basketball is not just about the game; it's also about making a positive impact on the community.

17. Community Service: The team regularly participates in community service projects, helping to build a strong connection with local residents.

18. Youth Camps: Akron Basketball hosts youth camps and clinics, providing young players with the opportunity to learn from college athletes and coaches.

19. Charity Events: The team often participates in charity events, raising funds and awareness for various causes.

Recent Success and Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Akron Basketball, with recent successes and promising prospects on the horizon.

20. 2020 MAC Championship: The Zips won the MAC regular-season championship in 2020, showcasing their continued excellence.

21. John Groce: Current head coach John Groce has brought a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the program since taking over in 2017.

22. Recruiting: Akron has consistently recruited talented players, ensuring a competitive team for years to come.

23. Facilities Upgrades: Recent upgrades to training facilities and the arena have provided the team with top-notch resources.

24. Alumni Support: Former players and alumni remain actively involved, providing support and mentorship to current players.

25. National Recognition: Akron Basketball continues to gain national recognition, with the team regularly featured in media coverage and rankings.

Akron Basketball's Legacy

Akron basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and standout players. From its humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in college sports, the team has shown resilience and passion. The Zips have produced NBA talents, set impressive records, and created a loyal fan base. Their journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and community support. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, Akron basketball offers something special. The team's legacy continues to grow, inspiring future generations of athletes. So next time you catch a game, remember the history and effort behind every play. Akron basketball isn't just about winning; it's about the spirit and determination that define the team. Here's to many more seasons of thrilling games and unforgettable moments. Go Zips!