Fast Start for Akron Leads to 85-72 Win Over Jackson State

Sunday, December 11

Akron, Ohio

2 PM

University of Akron

5-4,0-0MAC

Jackson State

1-8,0-0SWAC

Jackson St.

Akron

Fast Start for Akron Leads to 85-72 Win Over Jackson State

December 11 | Men's Basketball

Box Score

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AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Zips remained undefeated at home, defeating Jackson State 85-72 in a Sunday afternoon contest at James A. Rhodes Arena.

Akron started strong, blending strong perimeter shooting with aggressive defense, and building a lead of as many as 29 for its fifth win of the season and fourth in its first four home games. The Zips (5-4) shot 53.8 percent from the field, including 11-of-29 beyond the arc, and forced 13 turnovers while limiting the Tigers to 50.8 percent shooting.

Four Zips scored in double figures, led by senior guard Xavier Castañeda with 23 points, junior forward Enrique Freeman (17 points, nine rebounds), graduate transfer guard Trendon Hankerson (17 points) and junior guard Greg Tribble (12 points). It was the highest offensive output of the season for the blue and gold in the second game of a four-game homestand. The 54 points Akron scored in the opening half also marked their highest-scoring frame of the campaign.

Solid passing was once again a key factor offensively for Akron, which notched assists on 19 of its 28 made baskets. The offense was further fueled by 23 points off Jackson State turnovers, along with an 18-5 edge in points scored from the foul line.

The hosts never trailed, building a double-digit lead just moments into the game and never allowing Jackson State back into the contest. The Tigers (1-8), who briefly narrowed their deficit to 10 midway through the second half and forced just 10 Akron turnovers, undercutting any chance for a decisive rally.

Senior forward Jamarcus Jones topped Jackson State with 16 points and freshman guard Keiveon Hunt posted 10 in defeat.

The Zips continue the homestand on Dec. 14 when they host Wright State for a 7 p.m. tip-off. Stream the radio broadcast live on GoZips.com and follow with live stats as well.