NCAA Tournament: Akron Faces Arizona in Round of 64 Showdown

SEATTLE, WA — The Akron Zips are set to face the Arizona Wildcats in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena. The matchup, featuring the 13th-seeded Zips against the 4th-seeded Wildcats, is scheduled to tip off at 7:35 p.m. ET.

Akron, with a record of 22-12, is looking for its first tournament victory in program history. The Zips are 0-6 in NCAA Division I play since 1986. Under head coach John Groce, Akron has secured three of the last four Mid-American Conference Tournament titles, which earned them an automatic bid to March Madness in 2022, 2024, and 2025.

“We’ve had a solid season, and we’re excited to showcase our talent on such a big stage,” Groce said in a press conference. “The players have worked hard, and this is a chance for them to create a legacy.”

On the other hand, Arizona (28-6) enters the tournament as a formidable opponent. The Wildcats hold a long history in the NCAA Tournament with 39 appearances and winning a national championship in 1997. They have advanced to the Sweet 16 in 2022 and 2024 and are aiming for another deep run under head coach Tommy Lloyd.

“The tournament is always a unique experience,” Lloyd stated. “We’ve had a strong season, and our guys are ready to compete. Akron is a team to respect, and we need to play our best ball.”

Statistically, No. 13 seeds have a challenging track record against No. 4 seeds historically, winning just 21.2% of matchups since the tournament expanded in 1985. Heading into 2025, No. 13s have a total record of 33-123 against No. 4s.

Both teams have faced Central Michigan this season, with Arizona dominating 94-41 and Akron winning twice against the Chippewas, with scores of 87-71 and 85-82.

The game will be broadcast live on truTV and can also be streamed via NCAA March Madness Live. Local coverage will be provided by WHLO (640-AM), where Dave Skoczen will be on play-by-play duties.

Akron’s starting lineup includes key players who have consistently contributed to their success this season. While Arizona’s projected starters have experience in high-pressure situations, adding a layer of complexity to the matchup.

As the teams prepare for the game, the excitement for March Madness grows, making this clash one to watch. The winner will move on to face either No. 5 Oregon or No. 12 Liberty on Sunday.