MONROE, La. (Interstat) — Ball State built a large first-half lead and withstood a late charge to defeat Louisiana-Monroe 73-68 in a nonconference men’s basketball game Saturday at Fant-Ewing Coliseum.

The Cardinals led 36-27 at halftime and maintained control despite the Warhawks’ second-half surge. Ball State’s defense was pivotal, limiting Louisiana-Monroe to 2-of-18 shooting from 3-point range. The Warhawks stayed close by making 30 free throws but shot just 37.5% overall from the field.

Krystian Lewis led all scorers with 26 points for Louisiana-Monroe. Lavell Brodnex added 17 points and 13 rebounds. Kayden Fish and Davion Hill paced Ball State with 17 and 14 points, respectively. Attendance was 1,521. Ball State improved to 8-15 overall, while Louisiana-Monroe fell to 4-21.