Akron Zips Open 125th Basketball Season vs James Madison

The University of Akron men's basketball team is set to begin its 125th season on November 3, 2025, with a home game against James Madison University as part of the MAC-SBC Challenge. Akron, coming off a record-setting 28-7 season with a perfect 16-0 home record and a Mid-American Conference title, will celebrate its championship with a banner ceremony and ring presentation before the game. James Madison finished last season 20-12, including a 5-8 road record, and is predicted by Sun Belt Conference coaches to win their conference this coming season. The all-time series between Akron and James Madison stands at 1-2, with James Madison winning the most recent matchup in February 2024. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with commentary from Michael Reghi and Jeff Phelps, and fans can also listen on the Akron Sports Radio Network. Both teams are expected to bring competitive energy to this third season of the MAC-SBC Challenge.