MUNCIE, Ind.
Ball State achieved a commanding victory over Bowling Green with a score of 91-69 on Saturday, thanks in large part to a stellar performance by Payton Sparks, who netted 19 points and collected 13 rebounds.
The Cardinals improved their record to 8-7 overall and 2-1 in the Mid-American Conference. Mickey Pearson Jr. also made notable contributions with 16 points and six rebounds, while Juan Sebastian Gorosito matched that scoring with 16 points. Gorosito’s shooting was impressive, particularly from long range, as he hit 4 of 7 from beyond the arc, finishing with a field goal percentage of 66.7%.

For Bowling Green, Javontae Campbell scored 13 points and recorded two steals. His efforts were complemented by Wilguens Jr. Exacte, who contributed 12 points, and Marcus Johnson, who added 11 points along with six rebounds and two steals. The Falcons now stand at 6-9 overall and 1-2 in the conference.

The Cardinals established control of the game early on. With 13:46 remaining in the first half, they took the lead and maintained it for the remainder of the contest. Gorosito played a vital role in the opening half, leading the Cardinals with 11 points and helping the team secure a solid 42-26 advantage at halftime. The second half saw Ball State expand its lead significantly with a dominant 15-0 run that pushed a seven-point margin to an impressive 22 points. Pearson was particularly effective in the second half, scoring 10 points to help the Cardinals outscore Bowling Green by six points in that period.

Both teams are set to return to action on Tuesday, with Ball State traveling to face Ohio and Bowling Green preparing to host Buffalo.