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MAC suspends two refs for blown calls in wild ending of Ball State-Eastern Michigan

Published Jan. 25, 2016 10:45 a.m. ET

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The MAC Conference announced on Sunday evening that two referees from the officiating crew that worked the Ball State-Eastern Michigan game have been suspended.

Ball State's double overtime win over Eastern Michigan on Saturday afternoon was overshadowed by non-existent officiating in the final 16 seconds.

The referees allowed multiple held balls, traveling violations and personal fouls to go uncalled, as the wild sequence ended with Ball State guard Francis Kiapway hitting a game-winning 3-pointer to give the Cardinals an 88-87 win.

"The final play of the game was not handled appropriately by several officials and unfortunately took away from what was a highly competitive and entertaining game for the competing students and fans," MAC Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher said in a statement. "I along with our membership have higher expectations and as a result have directed our coordinator of men's basketball officials to take appropriate disciplinary action, including multiple-game suspensions."

Ball State improved to 4-2 in the MAC West Division standings, only trailing Northern Illinois by a half game for first place.

Eastern Michigan and Ball State meet again on Feb. 27.