Unforgettable Weekend: MSU Sports Soar in Key Matchups – The State News Highlights

There’s a lot to feel proud about with so many teams achieving success lately, says Matt Larson, associate AD and communications. However, not everyone had a win this past weekend. Wrestling faced tough losses against Indiana and Nebraska, and men’s tennis struggled in their second match of the ITA kickoff weekend.

“Women’s tennis is on the rise, and our wrestling program is steadily improving too,” said Darien Harris, assistant AD for Business Development and NIL Strategy.

MSU Women’s Basketball Triumphs Over U of M

MSU women’s basketball had a fantastic game against the Wolverines, winning 88-58 at Crisler Center. This victory marked MSU’s largest win margin over Michigan at their location. The Spartans were down by four at halftime but came back strong in the second half, led by junior guard Theryn Hallock, who scored 23 points.

The Spartans kicked off the second half with a 15-point run, taking the lead at 44-33. Hallock was well-supported by graduate guard Julia Ayrault and junior forward Grace VanSlooten, each contributing 18 points. “Julia knows this rivalry well and played a vital role in the win,” Harris noted.

Next, the team will face Oregon at home on Thursday, Jan. 30, at 6 p.m.

MSU Men’s Basketball Beats Rutgers

In a thrilling game at Madison Square Garden, the men’s basketball team defeated Rutgers 81-74. The Spartans led by just three points at halftime but held their ground in the second half. Freshman guard Jase Richardson was a standout player, scoring 20 points, while Coen Carr and Jaden Akins added 14 and 12 points, respectively.

After a strong showing, the Spartans will host Minnesota at the Breslin Center on Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 8 p.m.

Gymnastics Team Outshines Ohio State

After their win over Michigan, the gymnastics team continued their success by defeating Ohio State 196.8-195.75. Senior Gabrielle Stephen excelled, scoring 39.375 in the all-around, sharing the titles in every event. The team outperformed Ohio State with a stunning 49.300 score on floor, tying for the event title.

Next up, they will compete against UCLA in Los Angeles on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 5:30 p.m.

Hockey Sweeps Gophers

In a remarkable two-game series against Minnesota, the Spartans first won 9-3, setting a record for their highest-scoring game of the season. They scored four goals each in the second and third periods. Junior Isaac Howard and senior David Gucciardi both netted two goals. The second match was a tough back-and-forth but ended in victory for MSU after a shootout following a 3-3 tie after overtime.

Next, the Spartans are set to face the Buckeyes in Columbus on Jan. 30 and 31.

Women’s Tennis Earns First Win

The women’s tennis team achieved its first win of the season, defeating Xavier 4-3. After an early loss in doubles, they bounced back with strong performances in singles to secure the victory. In a follow-up match, they dominated West Virginia 6-1, showcasing their growing strength.

Men’s Tennis Faces Challenges

While the women’s team saw victories, the men’s team faced mixed results over the ITA Kickoff weekend. They won against Liberty 4-0 but fell to No. 2 TCU 4-1. Despite the loss to TCU, junior Max Sheldon earned the team’s only singles victory.

Next, MSU will travel to Knoxville to take on Tennessee on Jan. 31.

Track and Field Showcases Talent

At the Crossroads of America Invitational in Indianapolis, MSU athletes shined, with three athletes finishing in podium positions. Senior Elle Adrian matched her personal best in the weight throw, while Noah Sage and Landon Cosby achieved notable performances in their events.

MSU will compete at the Meyo Invitational and PNC Lenny Lyles Invitational from Jan. 31 to Feb. 1.

Wrestling Team Faces Tough Weekend

The wrestling team had a tough outing this weekend, losing 35-3 to Indiana, with only one victory from Clayton Jones. They faced another tough match against Nebraska, finishing 38-3. True freshman Mason Stewart did secure his first career dual victory, a bright spot in a challenging weekend.

The wrestling team will host Clarion for Senior Day on Feb. 2 at 1 p.m.

After an eventful weekend, MSU teams are eager to build on their successes and tackle future challenges.