Akron Zips coach John Groce and Miami (OH) Redhawks coach Travis Steele, who are half-brothers, faced off in the MAC tournament title game. The Zips rallied from an 18-point deficit to win 76-74 with a last-second floater by Nate Johnson. The two coaches have a long history, with Groce influencing Steele’s passion for basketball and coaching. Groce has coached in the NCAA tournament three times in the past four years, while Steele is seeking his first tournament appearance as a head coach. The win gives Akron a ticket to the tournament, with Groce claiming bragging rights and an NCAA bid.
