Akron opens the 2026-27 season ranked No. 7 in CollegeInsider.com’s Mid-Major Top 25, adding national recognition to a program entering a new era under head coach Dustin Ford. The Zips are aiming to extend their recent run of MAC and NCAA Tournament success.

By the Numbers
  • Akron ranked No. 7 with 542 points.
  • The Zips have won 3 consecutive MAC Tournament championships and reached the NCAA Tournament in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
  • Akron was picked 3rd in the MAC preseason poll with 110 points; Miami led with 130, followed by Toledo with 117.
  • 2 Akron players, Evan Mahaffey and Tahj Staveskie, earned Preseason All-MAC Second Team honors.
Yes, But

Akron’s national ranking signals high expectations, but the Zips were picked third in the MAC preseason poll, behind Miami and Toledo. They’ll also be adjusting to new head coach Dustin Ford.

What's Next

Akron opens its season Nov. 2 at Louisiana in the MAC-SBC Challenge. The home opener is Nov. 9 against Muskingum at James A. Rhodes Arena.

Bottom Line

Akron has earned strong preseason notice, but sustaining its championship run will be the real test under new leadership.