Penguins Face Akron Sunday in Final Tune-Up Before League Play
Youngerstown State Penguins are set to face the Akron Zips this Sunday as they conclude their non-conference schedule. This matchup will serve as the final preparation before diving into Horizon League play.
Gameday Information
The contest will take place at James A. Rhodes Arena, kicking off at noon. Fans can follow the game live via ESPN+, 570 WKBN, and iHeartRadio.
Season Overview
This season, the Penguins boast a 4-2 record, including a 2-1 performance on the road. They have achieved three victories against non-Power Four teams. Their last game saw them narrowly defeated by Toledo, 69-65. Youngstown State initially led by six points in the third quarter but faltered in the final minutes, unable to score for nearly four minutes.
Key Players and Statistics
- Sophia Gregory led the Penguins against Toledo with 16 points and eight rebounds.
- Casey Santoro and Erica King have both consistently scored in double figures, contributing to the team’s offensive efforts.
- Santoro is currently averaging 13 points per game and is close to a career milestone with 983 points.
- Faith Burch and Paulina Hernandez are nearing significant career rebounds, each approaching 400 and 100, respectively.
Previous Encounters
In the historical context, Youngstown State holds an impressive 41-20 series lead over Akron. They have not secured a victory at James A. Rhodes Arena since December 2011. The last meeting resulted in a 53-52 victory for the Penguins at Beeghly Center on December 6, 2023.
Scouting the Akron Zips
Akron is currently struggling with a 0-6 record. They have experienced close losses in their last two games, including a 95-94 defeat in double overtime against Binghamton. In addition to their home losses, they fell to Robert Morris and Cleveland State on the road, as well.
Top Performers for Akron
- Ni’Rah Clark leads the Zips with an average of 13.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.
- Monique Mitchell contributes 10.4 points per game as a promising freshman talent.
- Shaena Brew has made notable contributions with 22 assists and eight three-pointers so far.
Significance of the Matchup
A victory for Youngstown State would mark a 5-2 season start, their best performance through seven games since 2021-22. It would also grant head coach Melissa Jackson her first career win against Akron, following a successful tenure of 15 years at the university.
This game not only serves as a crucial stepping stone for the Penguins as they head into the Horizon League play but also represents a pivotal moment for coach Jackson in her ongoing journey returning to her former arena.
Looking Ahead
Post this matchup, YSU will immediately gear up for its Horizon League opener, heading to Milwaukee on December 5th. The Penguins are eager to build momentum as they dive into league competition following this final tune-up against Akron.
