Akron opened its 2026-27 men’s basketball season with a 75-61 road win at Louisiana, giving new head coach Dustin Ford his first collegiate victory. The Zips built a 17-point halftime lead and stayed in control, led by Ty Pence’s 19 points and Evan Mahaffey’s 16 points and 11 rebounds.

By the Numbers
  • 75-61: Akron’s final score.
  • 46-29: Akron’s halftime lead.
  • 45-29: Akron’s rebounding advantage.
  • 19: Points scored by Ty Pence.
  • 16 points and 11 rebounds: Evan Mahaffey’s double-double.
Yes, But

Louisiana’s Jamyron Keller scored 26 points, and the Ragin’ Cajuns made a push after halftime. Akron responded to preserve the lead and held Louisiana to 28.6% shooting.

What’s Next

Akron hosts Muskingum on Nov. 9 at James A. Rhodes Arena for its home opener, with tipoff set for 7 p.m. A championship banner and ring ceremony is scheduled before the game.

Bottom Line

Ford’s first game brought a road win built on a fast start, strong rebounding and balanced scoring—an encouraging opening for the new Akron era.