The University of Akron Athletics
University of Akron
6-4,0-0MAC
Yale
6-5,0-0Ivy League
Zips Fall to Yale to Begin the Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational
December 20 | Men's Basketball
EL PASO, Texas --The Akron men's basketball team got a 22-point showing from the bench, but fell 74-58 to the Yale Bulldogs at Don Haskins Center Friday.
The Zips (6-4) had two players score in double figures, led by Tavari Johnson, who had 23 points. Shammah Scott tacked on 10 points from the bench and Nate Johnson added four points, four assists and two steals.
The Akron offense was very productive from deep, pouring in nine threes Tavari Johnson was the most prolific shooter for the Zips, draining four treys in the contest.
How It Happened
After Yale jumped out to an 11-0 run, Akron went on a 13-2 run with 12:33 left in the first half, culminating in a three from Amani Lyles, to tie the game. The Zips would take a four point advantage with 4:28 left in the first frame on a 3-pointer from Scott. Yale would wind up with a two point advantage at the half, up 27-25.
After intermission, Yale managed to gain control and had a 45-35 lead before going on a 10-0 run to grow the lead to 55-35 with 10:41 to go in the contest. Akron shot well from three-point range in the half, hitting five shots from deep to score 15 of its 33 points.
Game Notes
» Akron found success from three point land, knocking down nine treys in the game.» The Akron bench made an impact by adding 22 points to its scoring output.
» The Akron defense forced 18 turnovers.
» Tavari Johnson led the Zips with a game-high 23 points.
» Akron got a team-high six rebounds from Amani Lyles.
What's Next?
Akron battles either host UTEP or Jackson State for third place in the Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday.
