NASSAU, Bahamas — Even in a sub-optimal performance, Ball State had its chances to earn a victory against the toughest opponent on its schedule yet.
Ball State (3-2) fell to the Vermont (2-5) by a 78-73 final in the first round of the Baha Mar Hoops Nassau Championship. Free throws cost Ball State a winnable game, as did some defensive lapses as it tried to mount a comeback. But Ball State didn't fold when Vermont went on runs. The Cardinals went down by double-digits early, tied the game early in the second half and was in a position to win against one of the best Mid-Major teams over the past few years in the final minutes.