Ball State Cardinals Face Toledo Rockets in MAC Matchup

The Cardinals look to continue their recent winning streak against the favored Rockets at Savage Arena

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:31am

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The Ball State Cardinals will travel to Toledo, Ohio to take on the Toledo Rockets in a Mid-American Conference matchup on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Ball State has a 7-13 record on the season but has won their last three games, including a close 68-67 victory over Central Michigan. Toledo holds an 11-10 record and is 8-3 at home, but is coming off a loss to Akron. The Rockets are favored by 9.5 points in this contest.

Why it matters

This game is an important conference matchup between two teams looking to improve their records and position in the MAC standings. Ball State has shown signs of turning their season around, while Toledo has been strong at home but struggled on the road. The outcome of this game could impact the postseason hopes for both programs.

The details

Ball State has been led this season by their strong play at home, going 6-4 at Worthen Arena. However, they have struggled on the road, posting a 1-9 record away from home. In their recent games, the Cardinals have won three straight, including a close victory over Central Michigan. Toledo has an 11-10 record overall and an 8-3 mark at Savage Arena. They are coming off a loss to Akron but previously defeated Bowling Green by one point. Sonny Wilson leads the Rockets in scoring with 17.0 points per game, while Leroy Blyden Jr. and Sean Craig have also been key contributors.

  • The game will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.
  • Ball State has won their last three games, including a 68-67 victory over Central Michigan.

The players

Sonny Wilson

The leading scorer for the Toledo Rockets, averaging 17.0 points per game.

Leroy Blyden Jr.

A key contributor for the Toledo Rockets, averaging 16.2 points per game.

Sean Craig

The top rebounder for the Toledo Rockets, averaging 8.0 rebounds per game.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play with the same intensity and focus that has led to our recent success.”

— James Whitford, Head Coach, Ball State Cardinals

“Our home court advantage has been crucial this season, and we look forward to defending it against a tough Ball State team.”

— Tod Kowalczyk, Head Coach, Toledo Rockets

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step closer to securing a higher seed in the upcoming Mid-American Conference tournament.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Ball State Cardinals and Toledo Rockets represents an important conference game with postseason implications. Both teams have shown the ability to win at home, but Ball State's recent winning streak and Toledo's home court advantage will make for an intriguing contest.