Preview: Ball State at Akron

AKRON, Ohio (Interstat) — A struggling Ball State team faces a steep challenge on Tuesday when it visits Mid-American Conference contender Akron at James A. Rhodes Arena.

The Cardinals (4-12, 0-3 MAC) enter on a five-game losing streak, including a 71-79 road loss at Massachusetts on Saturday. Their conference start has been marked by defensive struggles, allowing an average of 79.3 points in three losses.

Ball State will lean on guard Davion Hill, who is coming off a 22-point performance against UMass. Hill has averaged 14.7 points over his last three MAC games, providing a bright spot in a difficult season. Armoni Zeigler, who had 12 points and six assists against the Minutemen, is another key contributor.

Conversely, the Zips (11-4, 2-1 MAC) have won two straight, most recently a 77-67 victory at Bowling Green last Friday. They boast one of the league’s most efficient offenses, scoring 80 or more points in seven games this season.

Forward Amani Lyles has been a consistent force for Akron, averaging 14.5 points over his last four games. He scored 18 points in 20 minutes off the bench in the win over Bowling Green. The Zips’ balanced attack also features regular contributions from Evan Mahaffey and Sharron Young.

The matchup pits the MAC’s early-season polarity. Akron seeks to protect its home court and solidify its position near the top of the standings, while Ball State desperately searches for its first conference win to halt its skid.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Tuesday. Akron has dominated the recent series, winning the last six meetings. The teams will meet again in Muncie, Indiana, on Feb. 21.