By: Parker Perry

The University of Akron women’s basketball team (8-10, 2-2 MAC) has started conference play 2-2 after defeating rival Kent State (2-12, 1-3 MAC) 62-68 Saturday at James A. Rhodes Arena.

“Anytime you can win, we’re happy with that,” sixth-year Akron Head Coach Jodie Kest told media after the game.

The keys to victory that Kest pointed out were an effective full court press and the ability to evolve turnovers into points.

“I thought the press really gave them some problems and we finally created some of our points off our defense,” Kest said.

Akron started slowly. The Golden Flashes were able to jump out to an eight to nothing lead. The Zips were not able to close the gap until they began the press, which caused the Flashes offense to struggle.

Kent State ended the game with 20 turnovers, compared to Akron’s 14. The Zips scored 23 of their points from Kent’s turnovers.

Akron was able to make up their deficit and tied the game at 34-34 before the break.

Even with Akron’s momentum coming out of the locker room, Kent once again started the half on a run. This time, Kent went up by 10 points and Akron did not score until almost six minutes into the half.

Senior Jasmine Mushington finished the day with 15 points, while sophomores Sina King and Taylor Ruper each added 13.

Another key player who helped the Zips make a comeback was Senior Ti’eshia Stubbs, who helped the Zips get the offense started and played well off the bench.

Akron will travel to Athens, Ohio to face the Ohio University Bobcats (8-10, 1-3 MAC) date needed.