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.

Current Odds

• Spread: Akron -5.5 (-110)
• Over/Under: 156.5

Team Analysis

Akron enters as the tournament's top seed, looking for their third NCAA Tournament appearance under John Groce. The Zips dominated the MAC this season with a 17-1 conference record. Their high-tempo offense ranks 14th nationally, averaging 85 points per game while allowing 74.5. Key strengths include:

• 29.9 three-point attempts per game (6th in NCAA)
• 64.8 field goal attempts per game (7th in NCAA)
• Strong offensive rebounding with five players averaging 4.6+ rebounds

Miami (Ohio) seeks their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2007. The RedHawks set a program record with 25 wins this season. They average 81 points while allowing 72.6 per game. Their previous matchup against Akron resulted in a decisive 102-75 loss.

Prediction

Akron's depth and consistent scoring distribution (no player averaging over 14 points) gives them a significant advantage. Their transition game and multiple scoring threats should prove too much for Miami's middling defense. The Zips are well-positioned to secure back-to-back MAC Tournament championships.

Best Bet: Akron -5.5 (-110)

Key Factors:

• Akron's superior depth
• Previous head-to-head dominance
• Strong offensive rebounding advantage
• Higher scoring potential in transition

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