Akron vs Miami (Ohio) MAC Championship Odds, Picks: Who Takes the Dance Card?
The Miami (Ohio) RedHawks (25-8) face the Akron Zips (27-6) in the Mid-American Conference Championship Game on Saturday, March 15, at 7:40 pm ET at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. Akron enters as a 5.5-point favorite with the total set at 156.5.
Basketball player in white jersey
The Zips dominated the MAC this season with a 17-1 conference record and seek their third NCAA Tournament appearance under coach John Groce. They previously won MAC titles in 2022 and 2024, looking to become the first team since Buffalo (2019) to win back-to-back championships.
Akron's high-tempo offense ranks 14th nationally in adjusted tempo, averaging 85 points per game while allowing 74.5. Their offensive rebounding prowess and volume shooting stand out - they attempt 29.9 three-pointers (6th nationally) and 64.8 field goals (7th) per game. The Zips feature balanced scoring with no player averaging over 14 points.
Miami (Ohio) won a program-record 25 games this season, reaching their first MAC title game since 2007. The RedHawks average 81 points but struggle defensively, allowing 72.6 per game. They'll need a strong offensive performance to overcome their earlier 102-75 loss to Akron.
The Pick: Akron's depth and offensive firepower should prove too much for Miami. The Zips' transition game and second-chance opportunities will create separation. Take Akron -5.5 (-110) to cover and punch their ticket to March Madness.
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