Akron Zips part ways with longtime basketball coach John Groce

Groce reflects on his 9-year tenure as the Zips head coach after being let go by the university

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:20pm

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of blue and gold, conceptually representing the transition and change within the Akron Zips basketball program.The University of Akron's decision to part ways with longtime basketball coach John Groce marks a pivotal shift for the Zips program.Akron Today

The University of Akron has parted ways with longtime men's basketball head coach John Groce after 9 seasons leading the Zips program. Groce said it was an emotional time informing his players of his departure, but he is reflecting on his tenure 'with a smile' despite the difficult circumstances.

Why it matters

Groce had been the head coach of the Akron Zips since 2017, leading the team to several postseason appearances and establishing the program as a consistent contender in the Mid-American Conference. His dismissal marks a significant change for the university's basketball team and fanbase.

The details

Groce said he directly informed all of his players about his departure from the Akron Zips on March 30th. The university has not yet named a replacement for Groce, who had been the head coach since 2017 after previous stints at Illinois and Ohio.

  • Groce was let go by the University of Akron on March 30, 2026.
  • Groce had been the Zips' head coach since 2017.

The players

John Groce

Former head coach of the University of Akron men's basketball team, who was let go by the university after 9 seasons leading the Zips program.

University of Akron

The public research university located in Akron, Ohio that has parted ways with longtime men's basketball head coach John Groce.

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What they’re saying

“I ended up talking to all those guys directly,”

— John Groce, Former Akron Zips head coach

What’s next

The University of Akron will begin a search for a new head coach to lead the men's basketball program going forward.

The takeaway

Groce's dismissal after 9 seasons as Akron's head coach represents a significant change for the Zips basketball program, as the university looks to move in a new direction with its leadership.