Akron Zips Fans Hopeful After NCAA Tournament Loss

Fans proud of team's season despite disappointing first-round defeat against Texas Tech

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:48am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Akron Zips fans expressed a mix of pride and disappointment after the university's men's basketball team lost 91-71 to Texas Tech in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Friday. While the fans were hoping for a closer game, they remained optimistic about the team's future and its ability to win the MAC tournament again next year and return to the big dance.

Why it matters

The Akron Zips' appearance in the NCAA tournament was a significant achievement for the program and the local community. Even though the team fell short in the first round, the fans' reactions highlight the passion and support the team has built up over a successful season.

The details

The Zips kept the game close in the first half, but Texas Tech pulled away in the second half with hot shooting. Fans Tyler Lutz and Colin Feigel said they were disappointed with the final score but proud of the team's overall season, including winning the MAC championship for the third straight year.

  • The Zips lost to Texas Tech 91-71 on Friday, March 21, 2026 in the first round of the NCAA tournament's Midwest Region.
  • The Zips won the MAC championship for the third consecutive year prior to making the NCAA tournament.

The players

Tyler Lutz

An Akron Zips fan who was disappointed with the team's loss to Texas Tech but remains hopeful for the future.

Colin Feigel

An Akron Zips fan and freshman who enjoyed the team's MAC championship win in person and is proud of their season despite the NCAA tournament loss.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Texas Tech just shot the lights out. Nothing really Akron could do.”

— Tyler Lutz, Akron Zips Fan

“I was a little disappointed. But it was a great season nonetheless for sure.”

— Colin Feigel, Akron Zips Fan

What’s next

The Akron Zips will look to build on their successful season and make another run at the MAC championship and NCAA tournament berth next year.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointing NCAA tournament loss, Akron Zips fans remain proud of their team's accomplishments this season and are hopeful the program can continue its upward trajectory in the years to come.