The Michigan State Spartans ended their three-game losing streak with a hard-fought 53-49 win over the Northwestern Wildcats on Thursday at the Breslin Center. The Spartans trailed by five points at halftime, but rallied in the second half to secure a crucial victory for their NCAA Tournament hopes.
The Spartans were led by Tyson Walker, who scored 19 points and dished out five assists. Walker hit a clutch three-pointer with 1:28 left to give the Spartans a 51-47 lead. He also made two free throws in the final seconds to seal the win.
Malik Hall added 17 points and seven rebounds for the Spartans, who improved to 17-11 overall and 9-8 in the Big Ten. Hall scored 11 points in the second half, including a dunk that sparked a 9-0 run for the Spartans.
Wildcats fall short despite strong performances from Buie and Barnhizer
The Northwestern Wildcats put up a valiant effort, but could not overcome the Spartans’ defense and rebounding. The Wildcats shot 35% from the field and were outrebounded 42-32 by the Spartans.
The Wildcats were paced by Boo Buie, who scored 15 points and hit three three-pointers. Buie also had four assists and three steals. Brooks Barnhizer chipped in with 12 points and three rebounds off the bench.
The Wildcats fell to 20-8 overall and 11-6 in the Big Ten. They have lost four of their last five games after starting the season 19-4.
Spartans and Wildcats both eyeing the NCAA Tournament
The Spartans and the Wildcats are both hoping to make the NCAA Tournament, which is less than two weeks away. The Spartans have won three of their last four games against ranked opponents, including wins over Illinois and Ohio State. The Spartans are currently projected as a No. 10 seed by ESPN’s Joe Lunardi.
The Wildcats have also beaten some quality teams this season, including Purdue and Wisconsin. The Wildcats are currently projected as a No. 7 seed by Lunardi.
Both teams will have one more regular season game before the Big Ten Tournament, which starts on March 13. The Spartans will face Michigan on Sunday, while the Wildcats will host Nebraska on Saturday.
