MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) — Kyle Mallers had 12 points and seven rebounds as Ball State easily beat Defiance 87-43 on Tuesday night in the Cardinals’ season opener.

K.J. Walton had 11 points and six rebounds for Ball State. Tahjai Teague added 11 points. Jarron Coleman had 10 points and seven rebounds for the hosts.

Ball State takes on Evansville on the road on Saturday.