Akron Basketball Coach Leaves for South Carolina

John Groce departs after nearly a decade leading the Zips program.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the court.The transition of leadership in the Akron Zips basketball program represents a pivotal moment, as the team navigates a new era under a different head coach.Akron Today

After almost a decade as the head basketball coach at the University of Akron, John Groce is leaving Northeast Ohio to take the head coaching job at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Akron has named associate head coach Dustin Ford as the new head coach, pending university board approval.

Why it matters

Groce's departure is a significant loss for the Akron Zips basketball program, which he led to three consecutive Mid-American Conference tournament titles and four NCAA Tournament appearances during his nine-year tenure. The transition to a new head coach could impact the team's momentum and recruiting efforts.

The details

Groce told his players on Monday that he will be leaving Akron to become the new head coach at the College of Charleston. The University of Akron has named associate head coach Dustin Ford as the program's next head coach, pending approval from the university's board of trustees. Under Groce, the Zips compiled a 197-94 record and made four NCAA Tournament appearances.

  • Groce joined the Akron Zips in 2017.
  • Over the past nine seasons, Groce has compiled a 197-94 record.
  • Groce is leaving Akron to become the new head coach at the College of Charleston.

The players

John Groce

The former head basketball coach of the Akron Zips, who is departing the program after nearly a decade to take the head coaching job at the College of Charleston.

Dustin Ford

The associate head coach of the Akron Zips, who has been named the program's new head coach pending university board approval.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The University of Akron's board of trustees must approve Dustin Ford as the program's new head coach.

The takeaway

Groce's departure is a significant loss for the Akron Zips basketball program, which he led to great success over the past nine seasons. The transition to a new head coach, Dustin Ford, will be crucial in maintaining the team's momentum and recruiting efforts.