Akron Zips Basketball Coaches Share 2025-26 Team Insights and Goals

The Zips Basketball Teams Set High Expectations for the 2025-26 Season

The University of Akron’s 2025 Tipoff Reception at Rhodes Arena on October 28 offered a glimpse into the future of the Zips basketball teams. Both the men's and women's teams have their eyes on success, with the men aiming for a third consecutive Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament title and the women looking to rebound from a challenging season.

Both teams are set to begin the 2025-26 season on November 3. The men will host James Madison at 7 p.m., while the women will travel to South Alabama at 8 p.m.

Men’s Team: Aiming for a Three-Peat

The men’s team is entering the season with high expectations. Head coach John Groce emphasized that the goal is to win the MAC Tournament and make it to March Madness, something the Zips have achieved in the past two seasons and three of the last four. Point guard Tavari Johnson, who was named the MAC Player of the Year last season, has set his sights on making history by achieving a three-peat.

“We have to embrace those expectations and not be consumed by them,” Groce said. “You have to do the things that put you in that type of position consistently well.”

In the MAC preseason coaches’ poll, Akron was picked to win the conference and received 11 first-place votes. Miami finished second, and Kent State was third. The Zips defeated Miami 76-74 in the MAC Tournament championship game last season.

Key Changes for the Men’s Team

Last season, the Zips finished with a record of 28-7, including 17-1 in the MAC and 16-0 at home. They set a program record for most wins in a season and captured both the regular-season and tournament titles. However, they were eliminated in the first round of the NCAA Tournament by Arizona.

Groce plans to maintain the team’s fast-paced, 3-point-heavy offense but will focus on improving the defense. He noted that the team has more speed and size at positions two, three, and four, which could lead to more turnovers.

Newcomers and Departures

Two starters from last season’s team transferred: guard Nate Johnson to Kansas State and forward James Okonkwo to Utah. Additionally, starting guards Isaiah Gray and Seth Wilson used up their eligibility.

Tavari Johnson is the only returning starter, but several players from last season, including guards Shammah Scott and Sharron Young, and forward Amani Lyles, will return. Newcomers include wing Evan Mahaffey, who transferred from Ohio State, and his younger brother, Eric Mahaffey, who sat out the previous season due to injury.

Other transfers include guard Cody Head and forward Chabi Barre, along with freshmen Ognjen Stankovic, Josh Henderson, and Tai Perkins.

Women’s Team: Looking for a Turnaround

The women’s team faced a tough season in 2024-25 due to injuries, which forced them to rely on fewer players. Coach Ryan Gensler emphasized the need for versatility and adaptability, which he believes will help the team this season.

Akron was picked to finish eighth in the MAC preseason poll, but Gensler is optimistic about the team’s depth. Seven newcomers, including transfers Izzy Callaway, Natalie Johnson, and Keiryn McGuff, will join the roster.

New Additions and Returning Players

McGuff, the daughter of Ohio State women’s basketball coach Kevin McGuff, is expected to play multiple positions and bring leadership to the team. Gensler also praised freshman guard Shaena Brew for her progress.

Returning players include guards Teniesha Clarke, Maddie Vejsicky, and Kam'Ren Rhodes, as well as forward Ni'Rah Clark and center Liisa Taponen. Clarke is expected to return soon after recovering from an injury.

Women’s Schedule and Outlook

The women’s team will open the 2025-26 season on the same day as the men but will not play at home until November 20. They will start with four road games.

Gensler remains confident in the team’s potential, despite challenges. He highlighted the growth of players like Maddie Vejsicky and Ni'Rah Clark, who have worked hard to improve their skills.