AKRON, Ohio — Xavier Castaneda had a career-high 29 points as Akron topped Ball State 84-74.
The Cardinals led 48-40 with 16 minutes remaining, but a 13-0 run by the Zips gave them a lead they wouldn't relinquish.
Ball State led 36-33 at halftime.
Payton Sparks led the Cardinals with a season-high 23 points and added 10 rebounds in the loss.
Ball State (7-8, 2-2 MAC) hosts Buffalo (8-6, 2-2) Friday at 6 p.m. at Worthen Arena in Muncie.
