MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. (Interstat) — Central Michigan routed Northern Illinois 88-46 in a Mid-American Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at McGuirk Arena.

The Chippewas overwhelmed the Huskies from the start, building a 51-22 halftime lead. Central Michigan shot 62.7% from the floor and scored 52 points in the paint. Northern Illinois struggled offensively, shooting just 27.3% and making only 12 of 27 free throws.

Keenan Garner led Central Michigan with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jaxson Whitaker scored a game-high 19 points, and Nathan Claerbaut added 16. Makhai Valentine scored 13 points for Northern Illinois.

The victory improved Central Michigan to 9-17 overall. Northern Illinois fell to 8-17.