AKRON, Ohio -- Darren Goodson set a career high with 19 points as Kent State upset Akron 68-64 Friday night as the first-place Zips played their first game without their starting point guard.

The Golden Flashes (19-12, 9-7 Mid-American Conference) beat an Akron team without Alex Abreu, who was arrested this week on charges of trafficking and possessing marijuana. Abreu pleaded not guilty earlier Friday.

Akron coach Keith Dambrot wrestled with his emotions as he offered support to Abreu.

"I felt like my son got arrested," Dambrot said. "It's a heartbreaking thing. I love that kid and I'm going to stick behind him. It's my obligation to stick behind him and get him through this difficult time."

Kent State led 40-25 at halftime and never surrendered the advantage, though Reggie McAdams' 3-pointer pulled the Zips (24-6, 14-2) within 64-61 with 33 seconds left. The Golden Flashes responded with four straight foul shots.

Freshman Carmelo Betancourt filled in for Abreu, scoring five points with four assists.

Akron's Demetrius Treadwell had 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Zeke Marshall added 14 points.

The loss drops Akron to 15-1 at home this year. The Zips have lost two of three since having their 19-game winning streak snapped.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.