Lansing Sun

The Michigan State Spartans women's basketball team secured a narrow victory over Iowa with a final score of 68-66 in their Big Ten opener. The game, held at the Breslin Center, saw the Spartans come from behind after trailing by nine points in the fourth quarter. This win extended Michigan State's record to 10-0, marking their best start in program history.

Graduate guard/forward Julia Ayrault led the Spartans with 19 points and four rebounds. Nyla Hampton was pivotal in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 of her 14 total points during this period and contributing four rebounds. Grace VanSlooten added to the effort with 14 points and seven rebounds.

Iowa's Hannah Stuelke was the leading scorer for her team with 18 points and eight rebounds. Despite taking an early lead, Iowa could not maintain their advantage against a resilient Spartan team.

"Sunday was MSU's first win over Iowa since Dec. 12, 2020," noted a statement from Michigan State University. This victory ended a four-game losing streak against Iowa.

Michigan State now prepares for upcoming games at the West Palm Beach Classic, facing Montana on December 19 and Alabama on December 20.