As time expired in Kent State’s 70-67 road win over the rival University of Akron on Friday, sophomore guard Jaylin Walker ran down the court and slapped the rim in celebration.
It was just one of many times the Flashes celebrated throughout the evening, showcasing a swagger that’s been missing during the team’s most tumultuous parts of the season. Senior forward Jimmy Hall wagged a finger at the crowd after he knocked a ball out of bounds. Senior guard Deon Edwin smiled after one of his two blocks. Sophomore guard Jalen Avery practically roared at a defender when he buried his only 3-pointer of the night.