Akron Zips Basketball Coach Praises Mentor John Groce

Dustin Ford credits former colleague for preparing him to take over the program.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:26am

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Dustin Ford, the new head coach of the University of Akron men's basketball team, praised his former colleague John Groce for helping prepare him to take over the program. Ford and Groce worked together as assistant coaches at Akron for several years, during which time they would occasionally get into heated debates, but Ford says Groce's mentorship was invaluable in shaping him as a coach.

Why it matters

The transition of head coaching duties at a Division I basketball program is always significant, as the new leader must establish their own vision and culture. Ford's comments highlight the importance of mentorship in developing young coaches and ensuring a smooth handoff of program leadership.

The details

Ford and Groce worked side-by-side as assistant coaches at the University of Akron for several seasons. Though the two would occasionally get into passionate arguments, Ford says Groce's guidance and experience were crucial in preparing him to eventually take over the program as the new head coach.

  • Dustin Ford and John Groce worked together as assistant coaches at the University of Akron for several years.

The players

Dustin Ford

The new head coach of the University of Akron men's basketball team.

John Groce

Ford's former colleague who served as an assistant coach at Akron and mentored Ford in preparation for his new head coaching role.

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What they’re saying

“We'd get into arguments and walk out of the room and may be mad for a couple of minutes,”

— Dustin Ford, Head Coach, University of Akron Men's Basketball

The takeaway

Dustin Ford's comments highlight the value of mentorship in developing young coaches and ensuring a smooth transition of leadership in a college basketball program.