Lansing Sun

The Michigan State women's basketball team, ranked No. 20/21, secured a victory against Washington with an 80-68 win on Alumni Day at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan. This win improved the Spartans' record to 13-2 overall and 3-2 in Big Ten play, while Washington fell to 12-5 overall and 3-2 in conference games.

During the game, Michigan State honored members of its 2004-05 Final Four team, including All-Americans Kristin Haynie, Liz Shimek, and Lindsay Bowen. The Spartans were led by Julia Ayrault and Grace VanSlooten, each scoring 19 points. VanSlooten also recorded her third double-double of the season with 12 rebounds. Inés Sotelo and Theryn Hallock contributed with 11 points each.

Washington's Sayvia Sellers led all scorers with a game-high of 21 points. Despite starting strong, Washington was unable to maintain their lead as Michigan State responded with several runs throughout the game. By the end of the first quarter, Michigan State led 22-18 after a nine-point run.

In the second quarter, Washington outscored MSU but could not sustain their momentum as MSU took a narrow halftime lead of 36-35. The Spartans managed to force five turnovers in quick succession during the third quarter to gain control and maintain their lead throughout.

A key moment came in the fourth quarter when Hallock's three-pointer gave MSU a double-digit advantage at 66-54. Although Washington narrowed the gap briefly, MSU held firm for the win.

Both teams performed well from the free throw line; Washington made 18-of-19 attempts while MSU went 21-for-26.

Michigan State will next face Rutgers on January 15 and Illinois on January 19 as they continue their season.