MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) Tavari Johnson's 21 points helped Akron defeat Ball State 87-82 on Tuesday night.

Johnson shot 9 of 13 from the field and 3 for 3 from the line for the Zips (22-6, 14-1 Mid-American Conference). Shammah Scott scored 18 points and added five assists. Amani Lyles finished with 11 points.

Jermahri Hill led the Cardinals (14-14, 7-8) with 26 points. Mickey Pearson Jr. added 24 points and nine rebounds for Ball State. Ethan Brittain-Watts finished with 11 points.

Scott scored 13 points in the first half for Akron, who led 47-39 at halftime. Johnson scored 15 points down the stretch in the second half to help lead Akron to a five-point victory.

NEXT UP

Akron next plays Friday against Kent State at home, and Ball State will visit Bowling Green on Saturday.

---

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Copyright 2025 STATS LLC and Associated Press. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of STATS LLC and Associated Press is strictly prohibited.