ATHENS, Ohio (Interstat) — Javontae Campbell scored 19 points with seven rebounds and seven assists to guide Bowling Green to a 68-58 victory over Ohio in a Mid-American Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at Convocation Center. The Falcons improved to 9-3 overall, while the Bobcats fell to 5-7. Campbell keyed the win, supported by Sam Towns’ 16 points and eight rebounds. Ohio’s Jackson Paveletzke scored a team-high 19 points in the loss. Bowling Green secured the road win despite Ohio being a heavy favorite according to pregame projections. The combined 126 points fell well below the over/under line of 150.5.

ATHENS, Ohio (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle defined by missed shots and grinding possessions, the Bowling Green Falcons leaned on a standout performance from guard Javontae Campbell to secure a 68-58 victory over the Ohio Bobcats in a Mid-American Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at the Convocation Center. The game, which fell well short of the 150.5 over/under line, was a stark contrast to the offensive fireworks many anticipated. Both teams combined to shoot just 5 of 28 from three-point range in the first half, setting a tone of physical, low-percentage basketball. The Falcons improved to 9-3 overall, while Ohio dropped to 5-7. The most important stretch of the contest came early in the second half, as Bowling Green methodically built a working margin that Ohio could never overcome. Leading 33-29 at halftime, the Falcons opened the final period with a decisive 10-2 run. Campbell was the catalyst, scoring on a driving layup and then creating opportunities for others. His steal and subsequent outlet led to a Justin Thomas assist on a Troy Glover layup, pushing the lead to 12 points. Ohio, which entered the game with a 70% probability to win according to National Statistical’s ELO system, never recovered. The Bobcats were plagued by frigid outside shooting all afternoon, finishing just 5 of 28 from beyond the arc. They also left points at the free-throw line, making only 19 of 30 attempts. Bowling Green, conversely, capitalized on its chances, converting 19 of 23 free throws. Campbell, a 6-foot-2 guard from Muskogee, Oklahoma, delivered a complete performance to lead the Falcons. He played 36 minutes, scoring 19 points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out seven assists. His ability to penetrate and either finish or find open teammates was crucial in breaking down an Ohio defense that recorded five blocks. Forward Sam Towns, a Columbus native, provided strong support with 16 points and eight rebounds in 38 minutes. Ohio was led by guard Jackson Paveletzke, who also scored 19 points. Forward Aidan Hadaway contributed seven points and 10 rebounds, but the Bobcats’ offensive rating of 85.0 on 68 possessions underscored their struggles to generate efficient offense against a disciplined Bowling Green defense that forced 15 turnovers. The Falcons’ victory was built on a foundation of slightly better efficiency. While neither offense was sharp, Bowling Green posted an offensive rating of 93.2, edging out Ohio’s mark. The Falcons shot 41.5% from the field compared to Ohio’s 37%, and their advantage at the free-throw line proved decisive in a game where scoring was at a premium. Bowling Green will look to extend its winning streak when it hosts Siena Heights on Monday. Ohio will also be at home Monday, facing Miami-Hamilton as both teams conclude non-conference play before diving back into MAC action later this month.

Preview: Bowling Green Falcons at Ohio Bobcats ATHENS, Ohio (Interstat) — The surging Bowling Green Falcons look to extend their winning streak when they visit the Ohio Bobcats in a Mid-American Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at the Convocation Center. Bowling Green (8-3) enters on a three-game win streak, most recently defeating Chicago State 76-55 on Tuesday. The Falcons have been led by guard Javon Ruffin, who is coming off a 15-point, 9-assist performance. Over his last six games, Ruffin is averaging 12.7 points and 4.2 assists, including a 17-point effort in a road win at Kansas State on Dec. 1. Ohio (5-6) has found momentum with four consecutive victories after a 1-6 start. The Bobcats routed Ohio Wesleyan 89-56 on Tuesday, powered by forward Aidan Hadaway’s 19 points and four assists in just 23 minutes. Hadaway has been a consistent force, scoring in double figures in five straight games and averaging 15.2 points during the team’s current win streak, which includes an overtime victory over Saint Bonaventure. The Falcons have showcased a potent offense, averaging 86.5 points in their eight wins but just 71.7 in their three losses. Ohio’s defense, which allowed 90.3 points per game in its first six contests, has tightened during the streak, conceding an average of 74.3. This game opens the conference schedule for both teams. Bowling Green will aim to leverage its strong backcourt play and superior record on the road, while Ohio seeks to defend its home court and continue its recent resurgence. The matchup between Ruffin’s playmaking and Hadaway’s versatile scoring will be pivotal. Following this contest, Bowling Green hosts Siena Heights on Monday. Ohio is scheduled to host Miami-Hamilton the same day.