April 30, 2026
The Akron Zips’ roster overhaul under new head coach Dustin Ford continues to gain steam as the program landed a significant commitment from North Texas transfer Buddy Hammer Jr.
The 6-foot-7, 215-pound forward announced his intent to join the Zips for the 2026-27 season, bringing much-needed frontcourt versatility and a relentless motor to the James A. Rhodes Arena.
A Proven Winner and Elite Rebounder
Hammer Jr. arrives in Akron after one season with the North Texas Mean Green, where he established himself as a high-upside reserve. While his season averages of 4.1 points and 2.8 rebounds in roughly 14 minutes per game might seem modest, Hammer Jr. flashed his potential during the American Championship tournament, where he averaged 12 points and seven rebounds over two games.
Before his stint at North Texas, Hammer Jr. was a standout at the junior college level:
- Northeastern Oklahoma A&M (2024-25): Named an NJCAA All-American Honorable Mention after averaging a double-double with 12.3 points and 10.0 rebounds per game.
- Connors State Junior College (2023-24): Led his team to a 34-3 record and a National Tournament semifinal appearance, averaging 14.0 points and 7.1 rebounds.
Fit in Coach Ford’s System
With the Zips moving toward a modern, cost-efficient roster construction of three guards and versatile forwards, Hammer Jr. fits the “glue guy” mold perfectly. His ability to score at all three levels and his high-intensity rebounding make him a strong candidate for a breakout season as his minutes likely increase in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
Akron’s Rebuilt 2026-27 Roster
Hammer Jr. joins an impressive list of portal additions for the Zips as they look to remain a MAC powerhouse:
- Tahj Staveskie: A dynamic scorer from Incarnate Word who previously averaged over 17 points per game.
- Colin White: The former Ohio Mr. Basketball and Ohio State transfer.
- Max Burton: A redshirt senior forward arriving from Western Michigan.
- Ty Pence: A sharpshooting guard from Illinois State.
- Exavier Wilson: A high-scoring guard from Kansas State.
As Coach Dustin Ford fills the gaps left by departing seniors like Amani Lyles and Tavari Johnson, the addition of Buddy Hammer Jr. provides the Zips with the physical presence and postseason experience necessary for another deep March run.
