Lansing Sun

Michigan State University's athletic teams are preparing for a busy week of competition across various sports.

The top-ranked hockey team will face Penn State in a two-game series this Friday and Saturday. Last week, the Spartans secured two victories against Wisconsin, including an overtime win at Chicago's Wrigley Field. Daniel Russell was instrumental with two goals, one being the game-winner in overtime. Sophomore goalie Luca Di Pasquo made 31 saves in that match, marking his fourth win within a week. Another sophomore goaltender, Trey Augustine, recently won a Gold Medal with Team USA at the IIHF U20 World Junior Championship.

In men's basketball, Michigan State will host Washington on Thursday evening at Breslin Center. The Spartans have historically led the series against Washington 4-2. Following this game, they will travel to Northwestern for their only encounter of the season on Sunday. Last Friday saw them defeat Ohio State 69-62, with Szymon Zapala scoring a season-high 15 points.

The women's gymnastics team achieved its highest-ever ranking at No. 3 following their victory over Western Michigan with a score of 196.850. This weekend they will compete in Gainesville against Nebraska, Northern Illinois, and Florida.

After a break last weekend, the women's basketball team returns to action with games against Nebraska on Wednesday and Washington on Sunday at home during Alumni Day celebrations.

The wrestling team begins Big Ten competition facing Penn State on Friday and hosting Maryland on Sunday at Jenison Field House. Veterans and current military personnel along with first responders, educators, and healthcare workers can attend these events free of charge as part of Spartan Salute.

Finally, track & field resumes its indoor season by participating in the Wolverine Invitational on January 11 in Ann Arbor.