Akron Zips seniors Tavari Johnson and Amani Lyles have been selected among 64 players to compete in the prestigious Portsmouth Invitational Tournament from April 15-18, 2026. This annual tournament has been a significant platform for senior college basketball players to showcase their talents to professional scouts since 1953. Johnson and Lyles join an elite group, becoming the seventh and eighth players in Akron's history to be invited to this tournament. They will represent separate teams during the competition, with hopes of advancing their basketball careers.

By the Numbers
  • 196 players have participated from Akron in the tournament's history.
  • Johnson ranks 1st in single-season assists with 176 and 3rd in single-season scoring with 688 points.
State of Play
  • The tournament features eight teams of eight players competing over four days.
  • Johnson and Lyles are among standout players in the 2025-26 season, with Johnson earning multiple accolades, including the MAC Tournament MVP.
What's Next

Following the Portsmouth Invitational, the performances of Johnson and Lyles will influence their prospects for professional basketball opportunities. Scouts in attendance will assess their skills and potential further in the tournament.

Bottom Line

The selection of Johnson and Lyles underscores Akron's growing prominence in college basketball; their success at the Portsmouth Invitational could pave the way for their professional careers. It鈥檚 a defining moment that reflects both their individual accomplishments and the reputation of the Zips' basketball program.