The Eastern Michigan University Eagles soared to new heights in their latest conference clash, beating a long-time rival during their Jan. 6, 2026 performance that rewrote the record books for a series dating back to 1947. By securing a commanding 74-52 win, the Eagles recorded the largest margin of victory in the rivalry's history, delivering a definitive statement that evened their conference record and showcased their dominance on the hardwood against Ball State University.
First half
The EMU men’s basketball team set a dominant tone from the opening tip in tonight's conference showdown, resulting in a commanding 74-52 victory. This win was essential for the program, elevating their overall record to 8-8 and moving them to a 2-2 mark in Mid-American Conference play.
The Eagles’ first-half performance was defined by clinical shooting and tactical discipline. The team entered the locker room with a 39-25 lead, built on a 61.5% field goal percentage. Converting 16 of their 26 attempts, the Eagles found success both in the interior and on the perimeter. From beyond the arc, the squad hit 55.6% of their shots (5-of-9), effectively stretching the opposition’s defense. Furthermore, the team was perfect from the charity stripe during the first half, converting both of their free throw attempts. This efficient start allowed the Eagles to dictate the tempo of the game and establish a double-digit lead that they did not relinquish.
Second half
The Eagles continued their high-level execution in the second half, adding 35 points to their total. While the shooting percentage naturally adjusted from the historic pace of the first half, it remained elite at 54.2% (13-of-24). The perimeter attack remained a central theme, as the Eagles improved their 3-point volume and successfully knocked down 6-of-12 attempts (50.0%) in the final twenty minutes.
Control of the glass was a defining factor in maintaining this lead. The Eagles concluded the game with a 37-18 rebounding advantage, ensuring the opposition had very few opportunities for second-chance points. In fact, the Eagles limited the other side to just two second-chance points for the entire game. Offensively, the team also capitalized on mistakes, scoring 13 points off turnovers and recording 28 points in the paint. By the final buzzer, the Eagles had secured a 22-point victory while shooting 58.0% for the game.
Player breakdowns
The victory was a collective effort, featuring standout performances from the starting five and significant contributions from the reserves:
- Carlos Hart: Hart was the offensive centerpiece, leading all scorers with 18 points. He was remarkably efficient, missing only three shots (7-of-10 FG) and hitting 2-of-3 from long range. He also distributed the ball well, tallying three assists.
- Addison Patterson: Patterson provided a steady scoring punch with 12 points. He was a force on the boards with six rebounds and showed his range by converting two of his 3-point attempts.
- Mohammad Habhab: Habhab anchored the team’s physical presence, nearly recording a double-double with nine points and a game-high nine rebounds. He also led the team in playmaking with three assists in 32 minutes of action.
- Jon Sanders II: Leading the reserve unit, Sanders II was a spark plug off the bench, scoring eight points. He hit 66.7% of his three-point attempts (2-of-3) in just 16 minutes.
- Godslove Nwabude: Nwabude focused on the defensive end, recording two of the team’s blocks and securing six rebounds.
- Bench contributions: The depth of the roster was on full display as the bench outscored the opposition's reserves 32-12. Mak Manciel, Gregory Lawson II and Merritt Alderink each contributed five points. Lawson II and Alderink were particularly efficient, combining for 4-of-6 shooting in limited minutes. John Shanu II added four points and three boards, while Mehki Ellison and Braelon Green combined for six points and four assists. Aidan Rubio also contributed two points and two rebounds.
Historical significance
This specific victory holds a special place in the history of the program. The Eagles’ rivalry with this opponent dates back to Feb. 9, 1947. Over the course of 118 matchups, the Eagles have now secured 46 all-time wins.
The 22-point margin of victory (74-52) is the largest the Eagles have achieved against Ball State in recent history. The previous largest margin of victory for the Eagles in this series was a 17-point win (58-41) on Feb. 3, 2018. By scoring 74 points, the team also performed significantly better than their historical scoring average of 68 points per game in the series. This dominant display helped the Eagles break a trend where they had gone 2-8 in the last 10 meetings, signaling a strong start to the current conference season.
Looking ahead: Battle in Kalamazoo
The Eagles will look to carry this momentum on the road as they travel to face Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The game is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, with tipoff set for 1 p.m. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ or listen to the broadcast via radio on the WEMU/Varsity Network.
