Author : Jack Culberson
Coming into this game Eastern Michigan was 6-16 and Ball State was 15-7. This game was a crucial MAC matchup and it lived up to the hype. In the end, Ball State was able to squeak out a 91-90 victory in overtime. Let’s take a closer look at what happened in this game.
To start the game, Ball State got out to an early lead. However, Eastern Michigan was able to even the game, and they had the lead at halftime as the score was 40-37. Throughout the second half things remained extremely close, and the game was tied 78-78 at the end of the half so they had to go to overtime. In overtime, the game remained close until Ball State took a 4 point lead with 2 seconds remaining. Eastern Michigan was able to make a three pointer to bring the game within 1 point, but time ran out on the clock. Ball State had defeated Eastern Michigan 91-90.
Key Aspects of the Game:
Let’s take a look at the factors that decided the outcome of the game. Eastern Michigan shot 51.5% from the field while Ball State shot 53.2% from the field. Although their field goal percentages were nearly identical, Eastern Michigan shot 50% from three and Ball State shot 38.5% from three. Ball State led in rebounds as they had 38 including 8 offensive, while Eastern Michigan had 32 including 4 offensive rebounds. Ball State also led in blocks and assists as they had 6 blocks and 18 assists, while Eastern Michigan had 2 blocks and 10 assists. Eastern Michigan had fewer turnovers and more steals. But the biggest factor in this game was the difference in fouls. Eastern Michigan had 20 fouls while Ball State had 12, so Ball State shot 12 more free throws than Eastern Michigan.
Key Players:
Eastern Michigan’s Emoni Bates had a great game. Bates had 35 points as well as 5 rebounds and 2 assists. He put on an absolute scoring clinic as he shot 54% from the field. Ball State’s Payton Sparks had a great game as well as he recorded 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Ball State’s Jarron Coleman also had a great game. He recorded 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Eastern Michigan is now 6-17 and 9th place in the MAC. Their season is not completely over, but they need to make a very strong push in order to make the MAC tournament. It will be interesting to see how their season plays out.
Ball State is now 16-7 and 4th place in the MAC. They are looking towards the MAC tournament and if they do well enough maybe they can make the NCAA tournament. It will be interesting to see how their season plays out as well.