The men’s basketball team of The University of Akron recently participated in a noteworthy performance at the NCAA Tournament. However, due to the team’s predominantly senior roster, significant changes are expected for the 2024-25 season.
Following their 77-60 defeat to Creighton in the first round of March Madness, the Zips concluded their season with an admirable 24-11 record. Looking towards the upcoming season, the team is set to lose four starters and could potentially see a departure of six players overall, with additional modifications arising from the recently opened transfer portal. Consequently, the composition of the roster will undergo substantial changes.
Currently, there are several players with remaining eligibility who will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Akron’s basketball program. Among them is Nate Johnson, a 6’3″, 204-pound guard from Liberty Township entering his sophomore year. Furthermore, there are numerous players, including Amani Lyles, Shammah Scott, Darrion Baker, Tavari Johnson, Ryan Prather, Evan Wilson, Zach Halligan, Mikal Dawson, and Marvin Musiime-Kamali, who have the potential to contribute to the team’s success in the forthcoming season.
Nevertheless, the Zips will bid farewell to several key starters, including Greg Tribble, Sammy Hunter, Ali Ali, and Enrique Freeman, who have played their final game for the team. Kaleb Thornton, a guard from Bolingbrook, Illinois, will also be departing Akron following the conclusion of this season.
As the team embarks on this transitional phase, it will be intriguing to observe how the coaching staff manages these changes and constructs a new roster capable of upholding the program’s success. With the departure of senior players, there will be significant opportunities for the remaining athletes to rise to the occasion and leave their mark on the team.
Looking ahead, The University of Akron will undoubtedly prioritize recruitment and development to ensure that the basketball program remains competitive and progresses in the future. The evolution of the Zips’ roster and the emergence of new talent as they prepare for the 2024-25 season will undoubtedly be an exciting journey to witness.