The No. 4 seed Arizona Wildcats are set to face off against the No. 13 seed Akron Zips on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, marking their opening match of the 2025 NCAA Mens Basketball Tournament. With both teams eager to advance, this game is projected to be one of the more exciting matchups of the tournament.
Arizona, boasting a 22-12 record this season, reaches the tournament after having navigated through intense competition within the Big 12 Conference. The Wildcats recently finished as runners-up in the Big 12 Tournament, where they defeated Kansas and Texas Tech before falling to Houston 72-64. Their performance throughout the season has also been highlighted by their offensive capabilities, averaging 81.7 points per game.
On the other hand, the Akron Zips enter the tournament with remarkable momentum, having secured their spot by winning the Mid-American Conference tournament, concluding with a record of 28-6. Akron clinched the title with an impressive 76-74 victory over Miami (Ohio) on March 15, 2025, led by Nate Johnson's decisive floater with just 2.3 seconds remaining. This victory marked the Zips first back-to-back NCAA appearances, showcasing their growing strength.
While both teams exhibit strong offensive strategies, they approach the game with differing styles. Akron races against the clock, averaging just 15.8 seconds per possession and ranking 16th nationally for adjusted tempo as calculated by KenPom. Arizona, relatively slower, ranks 54th with 16.4 seconds per possession. Despite Arizona's recent adjustments meant to stabilize their pace, they risk being outpaced by the high-tempo Zips.
Statistically, Akron has been particularly effective with their long-range shooting, hitting 36.6% of their three-point attempts, positioning them 49th among Division I teams. This means they score approximately 38.1% of their total points from beyond the arc, which reflects their offensive dynamics. Comparatively, Arizona struggles with three-point shooting at just 32.4%, having the 247th ranking nationally; they're expected to rely more heavily on driving to the basket.
Heading to this tournament matchup, betting odds reflect Arizona's position as 14.5-point favorites. Arizona is presented with -1100 on the moneyline, whereas Akron stands with +700. BetMGM indicates the over/under for the game at 166.5 points.
Predictions are decidedly favoring Arizona, with ESPN projecting the Wildcats to have approximately 92.7% probability of defeating the Zips. Various analyses reveal differing opinions, with The Arizona Republic forecasting Arizona to win 85-78, and Dimers offering their prediction of 89-74, whilst the Akron Beacon Journal suggests a closer contest at 86-82 for Arizona.
Furthering the discussion of strength, analysts point out Arizona's recent inconsistency by noting they lost earlier this season at Kansas, followed by back-and-forth results leading to their return to the AP Top 25 at No. 21 on March 17, 2025. This fluctuation contributes to the air of expectation surrounding the team as they face Akron.
Coach Tommy Lloyd expressed respect for Akrons ability to play fast and shoot efficiently, noting, “Just looking at their stats, they get up and down, they shoot the three.” Akron's success this season can be attributed to coach John Groce, who received accolades for his coaching prowess, leading players like Nate Johnson, named the conference's Player of the Year, to thrive with high individual performances including leading the team with 14.0 points per game.
This matchup will provide both teams with ample opportunity to make significant statements; Arizona to demonstrate their ability to learn from prior tournament disappointments, and Akron to aim for their first NCAA Division I tournament win after previously falling short.
Win or lose, this game promises to be filled with anticipation; it not only reflects the contrasting styles and statistics of two competitive teams but also sets the scene for the unpredictability synonymous with March Madness.
For fans eager to attend, tickets are available, with airings set on truTV starting at 7:35 p.m. ET. Regardless of the outcome, both programs are making headlines and establishing legacies during this year's tournament, illustrating the promise of collegiate basketball.
