CHARLOTTE AMALIE WEST, U.S. Virgin Islands (Interstat) — In a commanding display of offensive efficiency, the Akron Zips defeated the Iona Gaels 96-75 in a men’s NCAA Division I basketball game Friday night at the U.V.I. Sports and Fitness Center.

The Zips seized control early, building a 47-33 halftime lead and never relenting, outscoring the Gaels by seven points in the second half to secure the decisive victory. The win elevated both teams to identical 4-1 records on the young season.

Akron’s offense operated with surgical precision, scoring 96 points on just 77 possessions for an elite offensive rating of 124.9. The Zips shot 53.8 percent from the field, connecting on 35 of 65 attempts, and were efficient from beyond the arc, making 9 of 21 three-pointers. They also capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 17 of 25 attempts.

Iona, by contrast, struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm. The Gaels posted an offensive rating of 95.5, shooting 43.5 percent from the floor on 27-of-62 shooting. They were hampered by 16 turnovers and managed only four assists as a team, a testament to Akron’s disruptive defense which recorded five steals.

Eric Mahaffey led the charge for Akron, scoring 20 points in 27 minutes of action. Tavari Johnson provided a potent secondary option, adding 19 points and three assists over 32 minutes. The Zips’ attack was balanced, with Evan Mahaffey contributing 16 points and Shammah Scott chipping in 14 points and five assists. Bowen Hardman also reached double figures with 10 points off the bench.

For Iona, Kosy Akametu shouldered the scoring load with 16 points. CJ Anthony facilitated much of the Gaels’ offense, finishing with 13 points and a team-high six assists. Keshawn Williams added 12 points, and Khalil Badru provided a spark off the bench with nine points.

The game was part of a multi-team event in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Iona’s schedule does not get easier, as they are set to face Evansville at the same venue on Saturday. Akron returns to action on its home court in Ohio against Milwaukee on Nov. 29.

The final score comfortably covered the pregame spread, which had Akron installed as a 10.5-point favorite. The combined 171 points fell just under the over/under line of 168.5.