The University of Akron Edged by Kent State, 57-55

Reagan Bass/Women's Basketball | The University of Akron

By Press release submission

Feb 8, 2023

In a rivalry showdown that went down to the wire, Kent State escaped with a 57-55 decision past the University of Akron Women's Basketball team on Wednesday evening at James A. Rhodes Arena.

The latest chapter in the rivalry featured big shots, defensive stands and dramatic moments. The Zips fought their way back from a 13-point deficit early in the fourth quarter, cutting the margin to two in the game's closing minute before the Flashes prevailed. A 17-8 spurt powered by five points from sophomore G Zakia Rasheed (Avon, Ind.) helped Akron battle its way back into the game despite foul trouble.

Sophomore F Reagan Bass (Strongsville, Ohio) posted a double-double to lead the Zips, finishing with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Senior F Molly Neitzel (Rocky River, Ohio) also recorded a double-double with a 12-point and 11-rebound performance, while junior G Alexis Stewart (Hamilton, Ontario) scored 12 points, including a clutch three pointer with 8.2 seconds remaining to bring her team within two, 55-53.

The Zips finished the game shooting 38 percent from the field, while limiting Kent State to a .309 shooting mark. Akron outrebounded the Golden Flashes, 43-30, including 32-21 on the defensive glass.

It was clear from the opening tip that there would be no easy baskets for either side as two of the MAC's top defenses dug in. The Zips (14-6, 5-4 MAC) and Flashes combined for just one made field goal in the first five minutes, but Akron erased an early 6-0 deficit with a 14-5 run spanning the first and second quarters.

Bass posted half of her team's points in the run, while the Akron defense forced three Kent State turnovers.

After the teams traded runs throughout the opening half, Akron headed to the locker room at the half trailing 24-23. The defense led the way for the Zips in the half, limiting the Flashes (14-6, 6-3 MAC) to 28 percent shooting.

Hannah Young led Kent with 16 points and Katie Shumate contributed 11 in the win.

By virtue of the victory, Kent State garnered a half point in the Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center Wagon Wheel Challenge. The Golden Flashes lead the current series this year, 4.0-0.5, through six events.