Preview: Struggling Buffalo Faces Ball State in MAC Women’s Basketball

MUNCIE, Ind. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in fortunes will be on display Wednesday night when the Mid-American Conference’s top team, the Ball State Cardinals, host the struggling Buffalo Bulls in women’s basketball at Worthen Arena.

Ball State (12-4 overall) enters the contest riding a three-game winning streak, including a 72-68 victory over Toledo last Wednesday. The Cardinals have been dominant in MAC play, averaging 82.3 points per game in conference wins over Toledo, Northern Illinois and Akron.

Buffalo (2-13) seeks to end a six-game losing skid. The Bulls fell 71-59 to Ohio at home on Saturday and have not won since Dec. 3. Their season has been defined by offensive struggles, failing to reach 70 points in any game during their current losing streak.

The matchup features two key guards. Ball State is led by Bree Salenbien, who is coming off a 14-point, 7-assist performance against Toledo. Over her last three games, she has averaged 14.7 points and 5.3 assists.

Buffalo will rely on Aniya Rowe, who scored a team-high 20 points in the loss to Ohio. She has been a bright spot, averaging 12.0 points over her last six contests, including a 19-point, 5-assist effort against Tarleton State on Dec. 19.

Ball State’s balance has been crucial. Against Toledo, Tessa Towers added 17 points and Grace Kingery scored 11. For Buffalo, Ella Corry (12 points) and Meg Lucas (12 rebounds) provided support alongside Rowe in the Ohio game.

The Cardinals have been formidable at home, boasting a 6-1 record in Muncie this season. Buffalo is 1-7 in road games, with its lone away victory coming at Niagara on Dec. 3.

This is the first of two scheduled meetings between the teams this season. They are set to meet again in Buffalo on Feb. 18.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST Wednesday. Ball State will visit Western Michigan on Saturday, while Buffalo will host Massachusetts.