Baker leads Northern Illinois over Eastern Michigan 80-63

DEKALB, Ill. (AP) Travon Baker tied a career high with 25 points for the second time in as many games, Marin Maric had 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Northern Illinois rallied past Eastern Michigan 80-63 on Saturday night.

Baker hit 7 of 11 3-pointers - both career highs - for Northern Illinois (12-3, 2-0 Mid-American Conference), which improved to 11-0 at home this season and has won 13 straight at home dating back to last season.

The Huskies led 40-30 at halftime, but Eastern Michigan (9-6, 1-1) closed it to 43-41 in the first four minutes. Two free throws from Raven Lee put the Eagles up 49-47 with 10:18 left, but NIU rolled off 14 points in three minutes and coasted to a comfortable win.

James Thompson IV led Eastern Michigan with 23 points and eight rebounds.

Northern Illinois was 21 of 22 from the free-throw line.