Jennifer Smith Deputy Athletic Director/Senior Women's Administrator/Compliance | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Jennifer Smith Deputy Athletic Director/Senior Women's Administrator/Compliance | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Michigan State's women's basketball team, ranked No. 20/21, was defeated by Nebraska 85-80 on Wednesday night at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Despite efforts to overcome a 17-point deficit in the second half, the Spartans could not secure a victory.
The loss brings Michigan State's record to 12-3 overall and 2-2 in Big Ten play. Nebraska improves to 12-4 overall and 3-2 in league contests.
Julia Ayrault led Michigan State with 21 points, marking her third game this season scoring over 20 points. Theryn Hallock contributed 18 points, while Grace VanSlooten added another 12 points. Jaddan Simmons led the team with three steals and five assists.
Nebraska's Alexis Markowski scored 28 points and secured eight rebounds for her team.
The game started strong for Michigan State as they scored the first eight points, prompting an early timeout from Nebraska. However, after initially leading, the Spartans faced a cold streak that allowed Nebraska to take control with a significant run before halftime.
In the second half, Michigan State attempted to close the gap but struggled against Markowski's performance. Although they managed to reduce the lead at times, Nebraska maintained their advantage through key plays.
Michigan State will host Washington next Sunday at Breslin Center where they will celebrate Alumni Day and honor their 2005 Final Four team.
Post-game notes reveal several statistics about individual performances and records set during this matchup. The Spartans have now lost all seven games played against Nebraska in Lincoln and are currently standing at a mixed record of wins and losses across different scenarios this season.
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