Kent State women’s basketball falls to late Akron comeback
A late push by Akron Saturday afternoon at Rhodes Arena proved to be too much for the young Flashes (2-12, 1-2 Mid-American Conference) as the Zips came out with a 68-62 win and a point in the PNC Wagon Wheel Challenge.
The Flashes got out to a fast start on the road and jumped out to a strong 13-4 lead that lasted for the first five minutes of the game. It was then that Akron switched to a full-court press and went on a 20-2 run.
Before half, the Flashes worked hard at the rim and brought the team back into the game and went into the locker room tied at 34 apiece.
Again, the Flashes came out fast and hit the ground running, going on a 10-0 run to start the half. Once the Flashes had done some damage, the Zips switched back to the full-court, which caused the turnovers to increase.
Side Notes
- Flashes were led in scoring by junior Diamon Beckford’s career high 21 points and 7 boards.
- As a team committed 20 turnovers and were out rebounded 40-36.
- Shot 38 percent (8-21) from beyond the arch, 76.9 percent (10-13) from the free throw line and 40 percent (22-55) from the floor..
On the afternoon, the Flashes committed 20 costly turnovers that Akron turned into 23 points.
Where the Flashes lost the game was in the final stretch, like the young team has done on several occasions this year. With the ball, the lead and 2:55 left, the Flashes had an opportunity to finish out the game strong. The Zips had other plans.
Forcing a Tamzin Barroilhet turnover, the Zips hit a tough shot to grab a 60-59 lead with less than 2:30 left in the game. After that moment, the Flashes missed some crucial shots that Akron turned around and made in the closing minutes to grab the win.
The Flashes return to action Thursday against Buffalo at 7 p.m. in the M.A.C. Center.