LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In an exciting college basketball matchup, Juan Sebastian Gorosito led Ball State to a narrow victory over Bellarmine, finishing with 21 points as Ball State triumphed 86-82 on Saturday.
Gorosito also contributed defensively with three steals, highlighting his all-around game for the Cardinals, who now hold a record of 4-6. Mickey Pearson Jr. was another key player for Ball State, scoring 18 points with an impressive perfect 12 for 12 from the free-throw line, in addition to matching Gorosito with three steals. Jermahri Hill added 14 points, hitting 6 of 9 attempts from the field while also connecting on one out of three shots beyond the arc and securing one free throw.
On the other side of the court, Bellarmine struggled despite a strong performance from Billy Smith, who scored a remarkable 33 points. Dylan Branson supported Smith with an 18-point showing, while also grabbing six rebounds and recording two steals.
Ball State found themselves in a competitive first half, leading 47-42 at the intermission with Gorosito contributing 12 of those points. Hill’s jump shot early in the second half shifted the momentum, providing Ball State a 52-50 lead they would not relinquish for the remainder of the game.
In their upcoming schedule, Ball State prepares for a home game against Evansville next Saturday, while Bellarmine has a challenging road matchup against Wyoming on Thursday.
