Arizona Wildcats vs. Akron Zips: NCAA Tournament First-Round Showdown

The Arizona Wildcats, seeded No. 4 in the East Region, are set to face the No. 13 seed Akron Zips in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The game is scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 4:35 p.m. PT, at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena.

Game Details

• Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
• Time: 4:35 p.m. PT
• Location: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, Washington

Viewing Options

• Television: The game will be broadcast on truTV, featuring Lisa Byington (play-by-play), Robbie Hummel (analyst), Jalen Rose (analyst), and Andy Katz (sideline reporter).
• Streaming: Live streaming is available at CBSSports.com.
• Radio: Listen to the game on Wildcats Sports Radio 1290 AM.
• Live Updates: Follow live updates on Twitter at @AZDesertSwarm, @realBJP, and @ArizonaMBB.

Team Profiles

Arizona Wildcats

Under the leadership of head coach Tommy Lloyd, the Wildcats have secured a 22-12 record this season. They finished third in the Big 12 and advanced to the conference championship game, where they narrowly lost to Houston, 72-64. Arizona boasts a high-scoring offense, averaging 81.7 points per game, ranking 21st nationally. Key players include fifth-year guard Caleb Love, who leads the team with 16.6 points per game, and 7-foot redshirt sophomore Henri Veesaar, who has been a standout in recent months. (si.com)

Akron Zips

The Zips enter the tournament with a 28-6 record, having clinched the Mid-American Conference (MAC) title with a 76-74 victory over Miami (OH). This marks Akron’s second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. The team is known for its fast-paced, high-scoring style, averaging 84.6 points per game, which ranks 8th nationally. Junior guards Nate Johnson and Tavari Johnson are instrumental to Akron’s success, with Nate Johnson earning both MAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors. (herosports.com)

Betting Odds

• Point Spread: Arizona favored by 14.5 points
• Over/Under Total: 166.5 points
• Moneyline: Arizona -1200, Akron +750

These odds reflect Arizona’s strong position as the higher seed, though Akron’s potent offense presents a formidable challenge. (herosports.com)

Game Prediction

Analysts anticipate a high-scoring, fast-paced matchup. Arizona’s experience against top-tier competition is expected to be a decisive factor. The Wildcats are projected to secure a victory, with a predicted score of Arizona 85, Akron 77. (si.com)

Conclusion

As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, the Arizona Wildcats and Akron Zips are poised to deliver an exciting first-round game. Fans can look forward to a thrilling contest that showcases the talents of both teams.

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