Defending champ Akron holds off Eastern Michigan 97-89 in 2 overtimes of MAC quarterfinal

Akron defeats Eastern Michigan 97-89 in 2OT in MAC

CLEVELAND — Anthony Hitchens made a 3-pointer to open the second overtime and defending champion Akron held off Eastern Michigan 97-89 on Thursday in a heated quarterfinal matchup of the Mid-American Conference tournament.

The Zips (23-9) outscored the Eagles 9-0 to open the second OT and advanced to meet Western Michigan (18-14) in Friday’s semifinals.

In the final minute of the second OT, Eastern Michigan coach Charles Ramsey picked up his second technical foul and was ejected for arguing. Also, Eagles forward Brandon Bowdry was tossed for a flagrant foul. Moments earlier, Hitchens had to leave the floor after picking up his second technical.

Carlos Medlock scored a career-high 42 points and Bowdry had 21 for Eastern Michigan (17-15). Medlock’s 42 points were the second most in tourney history. Ron Harper scored 45 for Miami (Ohio) in 1985.

Steve McNees led Akron with 18.