Ballard's career-high 26 points and 12 rebounds led the RedHawks in their 92-88 triple-overtime win at The Convo Sunday. He shot 8-for-12 from the field and 8-for-9 from the free throw line.
After shooting only 2-for-12 from 3-point range coming into the game, Ballard hit both of his attempts from behind the arc Sunday.
Ballard was huge
coach John Groce said. He had 26 and 12 but it's more than that. It's the feel you have as a coach.
Groce said that Ballard's leadership was evident by how he had every one of his teammates' attentions anytime Miami came out of a huddle.
But this was not the first time Ballard hurt the Bobcats. He tallied 11 points and a career-high 13 rebounds in a 79-67 win in Oxford last season, Miami's only win against Ohio in three tries.
Ballard dismissed the notion that he tries any harder against Ohio than in any other game, even though some of his career-best numbers have come against the Bobcats.
It's not just about Miami or Ohio or the (Mid-American Conference) Ballard said. I just try to go out every day and play just as good any game that we play.
But just because it's the MAC or it's our rival, it's hyped up real bad, and it means a lot more to someone.
Up-and-down day for Washington
Early in the second half
DeVaughn Washington checked out of the game
walked angrily to the bench and covered his head with a towel. The game had gone every way except how he wanted.
Washington struggled during the early parts of Ohio's loss Sunday. He missed five of his first six shots
which included three layups. He fumbled the ball a few times
one of which occurred as he appeared to be headed for a breakaway dunk.
But Washington returned to the game after a break and made four consecutive shots
including three dunks.
His day ended prematurely
however
as he picked up his fifth and disqualifying foul with 5:21 remaining in regulation.
Another home loss
With Sunday's loss
the Bobcats have now lost six games at The Convo
