By Jeysla Gonzalez
3 15 2025
CLEVELAND, Ohio – Redshirt junior Nate Johnson (Liberty Township, Ohio) hit a buzzer-beating shot with only two seconds left on the clock to lead the Akron men’s basketball team over Miami, 76-74, to capture the program’s sixth Mid-American Conference Tournament title and seventh NCAA Tournament berth at Rocket Arena on Saturday (March 15).
The Zips (28-6) had two players score in double figures, led by Johnson, who had 22 points and five assists. Junior Tavari Johnson (La Grange, Ill.) tacked on 15 points and junior Amani Lyles (Columbus, Ohio) added six points and 14 rebounds.
Akron out-rebounded Miami, 35-26, in Saturday’s game, paced by Lyles’ 14 boards. The Zips also grabbed 13 offensive rebounds and scored seven second-chance points.
How It Happened
Akron narrowed its deficit late in the second half to 72-67 before going on a 7-0 run to seize a 74-72 lead with 1:05 to go in the contest. The Zips held onto that lead for the rest of the game for the 76-74 win. Akron shot well from three-point range in the half, hitting seven shots from deep to score 21 of its 42 points.
Game Notes
» Nate Johnson hit a game-winner with two seconds left.
» Akron rallied from a 12-point 46-34 halftime deficit to pick up the win.
» Akron found success from beyond the arc, knocking down nine treys in the game.
» The Akron bench made an impact by adding 26 points to its scoring output.
» Akron had a 35-26 edge on the boards in the win.
» Akron cleaned up on the offensive glass, collecting 13 offensive boards in the game.
» Nate Johnson led the Zips with 22 points.
» Akron got a game-high 14 rebounds from Amani Lyles.
Up Next
Akron will hold an NCAA Tournament Selection Show Watch Party on Sunday (March 16) at James A. Rhodes Arena with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the selection show starting at 6 p.m. Parking for the event is free in Lots 1, 2, 8 and 13.
COURTESY AKRON ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
