Akron improves to 5-0 in the MAC over Ohio 83-68

The Akron Zips Men’s basketball defeated the Ohio Bobcats 83-68 at James A Rhodes Arena on Tuesday night. Akron is now 9-0 at home, and are currently on an eight game winning streak. The Zips were lead by senior forward Kwan Cheatham who totaled 17 points, 13 rebounds, and three assists. Junior guard Jimond Ivey and senior center Isaiah Johnson both scored 15 points, and junior guard Antino Jackson added 11 points. Akron shot very well from the field in the second half making 18 of 30 shots (60%).

The bench for the Zips contributed a much needed 19 points. Daniel Utomi had eight points and has been playing very well as of late, and is shooting 55.0% from the 3 point-line. Emmanuel Olojakopke threw down two powerful alley oop slams for his only four points, while Tavian Dunn Martin scored five points. In the first half, it was relatively close and at halftime the Zips led the Bobcats only by three, 38-35. After halftime the Zips took control and went on to get their 26th consecutive home victory.

Akron will play at home on Friday night against the Eastern Michigan Eagles at 7 pm. The Eagles average about 82 points per game and are 4 and 1 in MAC conference play. Akron will look to stay undefeated in the MAC.

Below is the press conference with head coach of Ohio Saul Phillips who comments on the loss to Akron, and how is players did overall. Also head coach for Akron Keith Dambrot, Jimond Ivey, and Kwan Cheatham talk about the win and their mindset going into the MAC tournament.