The first three weeks of the college basketball season have given Mid-American Conference (MAC) fans interesting storylines as feast week is upon us. Several teams and players have stood out thus far.
Here’s a look at the team, player and storyline that have stood out the most:
Team: Akron Zips
Akron was picked to finish second in the conference this season, and despite dropping two games so far this year, the Zips have looked impressive in all six contests. Akron fell to Sun Belt favorite Arkansas State, who have dropped one game so far in a nine-point loss to Alabama. Akron’s other loss came at the hands of a perennial tournament team in Saint Mary’s. These two tests will help Akron prepare for the upcoming conference slate. Although the Zips have fallen twice, they have been one of the most impressive teams in the MAC in several categories. A top-100 scoring offense in the nation this season, Akron is averaging 20.8 assists per game, which is good for sixth-best in Division I. The Zips have taken care of the ball well in 2024 and have a 1.95 assist/turnover ratio, which is 12th in the country.
Player: Marcus Johnson, Bowling Green
In Johnson’s first season in Division I, he is off to a blazing start for the Falcons. Johnson averaged 21.6 points per game last season at Division II Wheeling and has continued to exhibit his scoring ability. The 6-foot-7 senior forward averages a conference-best 18 points per game through six contests, including a breakout performance on the road against Michigan State. The 23-point outburst at the Breslin Center put Johnson’s name on the map for basketball fans and shined the nation’s light on his story. Johnson has also showcased his shooting ability so far this year, shooting over 42% from beyond the arc. If he can continue this hot start, Johnson could be a name to watch for conference player of the year.
Storyline: Central Michigan
CMU has started 3-2 through five games after being picked to finish eighth in the MAC preseason poll. Their two losses have resulted in a one-point loss to Stony Brook and an eight-point defeat against No. 10 Marquette on the road. The Chippewas defeated a tough George Mason team with a last-second 3 from Damarion Bonds, which gave the team a highlight win. Anthony Pritchard has continued his All-MAC success from last season, averaging 13.8 points and 5.0 assists per contest. The Chippewas are a prime example of modern college basketball and building through the transfer portal. Behind Pritchard, CMU’s next four leading scorers were added from the portal this offseason. CMU could contend for another MAC title if the new additions continue to gel together.
