The Kent State Golden Flashes women’s basketball team is gearing up for an intense battle against their long-time rivals, the University of Akron Zips. The highly anticipated matchup is set for Saturday, March 1, at 12 p.m. at Akron’s James A. Rhodes Arena, marking an exciting start to the month for both teams and their fans.
Kent State’s Season So Far
The Golden Flashes have had an impressive season, securing their place in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament with an 18-10 overall record and a strong 10-5 standing in conference play. Their recent commanding 76-58 victory over Northern Illinois on February 26 solidified their tournament spot and highlighted their strengths on both offense and defense.
Senior forward Jenna Batsch has been a standout performer, averaging 16.4 points per game. Alongside her, sophomore teammates Mya Babbitt and Janae Tyler have contributed significantly with averages of 12.1 and 11.2 points per game, respectively. As a team, Kent State boasts an average of 74.9 points and 40.4 rebounds per game, reflecting their well-rounded and effective playing style.
Akron’s Current Standing
On the other side, the Akron Zips enter this game with a 9-19 record and a 3-12 performance in MAC play. It has been a challenging season for the Zips, including a 12-game losing streak, but they remain determined to turn things around, especially in front of their home crowd.
Akron’s key player, forward Shelbee Brown, has been a dominant force, averaging 13.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. She currently ranks fifth in the MAC for rebounding. Additionally, guard Alexus Mobley has provided a consistent offensive spark, averaging 11.9 points per contest. Despite the struggles, the Zips are ready to bring their best game against their biggest rivals.
Where to Watch
Fans eager to catch the action can tune in live on ESPN+, with commentary from Michael Reghi and Jeff Phelps. For those who prefer radio coverage, Rob Polinsky will be providing updates on the Kent State Radio Network. Tickets for in-person viewing are available through Akron’s official athletics website, and spectators are advised to park in designated areas near the arena.
A Historic Rivalry and a Milestone Celebration
Beyond the stakes of this game, the matchup carries historical significance as it coincides with Kent State’s celebration of 50 years of varsity women’s basketball. Earlier this season, during a home game against Akron, the Golden Flashes honored alumni and reflected on the program’s rich history. This milestone adds an extra layer of motivation for Kent State to deliver a strong performance on the court.
What’s at Stake?
For Kent State, a win would keep their momentum strong heading into the postseason, reinforcing their standing as a top contender in the MAC Tournament. For Akron, this game presents an opportunity to close the season on a high note by upsetting their rivals and regaining some confidence.
With emotions running high and both teams eager to make a statement, this game is set to be an electrifying showdown that fans won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for more updates and post-game analysis as Kent State and Akron battle it out on the court!
