MUNCIE, Ind. -- The Cardinals trailed by double digits. Then they led by double digits. And in the end, Friday night's MAC opener was just what you might expect from two of the league's anticipated contenders – a one-possession game in the final minute.
Ball State's wins in the non-conference schedule had come in decisive fashion, all by at least 14 points actually. Against preseason West Division favorite Toledo, BSU (8-6, 1-0 MAC) proved it could win a close one, too.
Ishmael El-Amin scored 17 points to go with a career-high nine rebounds, and Kyle Mallers went for 15 as the Cardinals competed their way to a 61-57 victory in front of an enthusiastic Worthen Arena crowd.