Akron Hires Dustin Ford as New Basketball Coach

Ford's family ties and experience under former coach John Groce make him the logical choice to lead the Zips program.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:32am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in navy blue and gold representing the Akron Zips team colors.Akron's new basketball coach Dustin Ford inherits a program built on a strong foundation, ready to lead the Zips to continued success.Akron Today

The University of Akron has hired Dustin Ford as its new men's basketball head coach, replacing the recently departed John Groce. Ford spent 18 seasons as an assistant under Groce, giving him deep familiarity with the Zips program and players. Additionally, Ford's family ties to the Akron area are seen as an advantage in continuing the team's success.

Why it matters

Akron's basketball program has been a consistent winner under Groce's leadership, making Ford's hiring an important decision to maintain that momentum. Ford's long tenure as an assistant and local roots are expected to provide stability and continuity for the Zips as they transition to new leadership.

The details

Ford has been an assistant coach at Akron for the past 18 seasons, working closely with Groce to build the Zips into a perennial contender in the Mid-American Conference. His familiarity with the program's players and systems is viewed as a major asset in taking over the head coaching role. Additionally, Ford is an Akron native, giving him strong ties to the local community that should aid in recruiting and maintaining the team's fan base.

  • Dustin Ford was hired as the new Akron Zips men's basketball head coach on April 15, 2026.
  • John Groce stepped down as Akron's head coach earlier this month after 18 seasons leading the program.

The players

Dustin Ford

The new head coach of the Akron Zips men's basketball team, having previously served as an assistant under former head coach John Groce for 18 seasons.

John Groce

The former long-time head coach of the Akron Zips men's basketball team, who recently stepped down after 18 seasons leading the program.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know if I could do anything else.”

— Dustin Ford, New Akron Zips Head Coach

What’s next

Ford will now begin assembling his coaching staff and preparing for the upcoming season, with high expectations to continue Akron's recent success.

The takeaway

Dustin Ford's deep ties to the Akron program and community make him an ideal choice to take over the Zips men's basketball team, as he looks to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessor John Groce.