BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Javon McCrea had 14 points, eight rebounds, eight blocks, and four assists on Wednesday night to lead Buffalo past Northern Illinois 67-46 in the Mid-American Conference opener for both teams.

McCrea's eight blocks tied a career high and Will Regan added 15 points and six rebounds for the Bulls (7-4). Shannon Evans scored 11 and Joshua Freelove added 10.

Buffalo opened the game on a 16-0 run, but Northern Illinois closed to within 24-20 by halftime.

The Bulls went on an 11-2 run early in the second half to extend its lead to 40-27 and maintained their advantage until closing the game on a 10-2 run.

Northern Illinois (6-7) was able to slow down Buffalo's offense for stretches, but was unable to overcome 19 turnovers and 27.3 percent shooting. Darrell Bowie had 13 points and nine rebounds to lead the way for the Huskies.