EAST LANSING, Mich. — In a thrilling conclusion to their Big Ten opener, the No. 17 Michigan State women’s basketball team secured a dramatic 68-66 victory over No. 21 Iowa. Julia Ayrault led the Spartans with an impressive 19 points, while Nyla Hampton made a significant impact with 13 of her points coming in the defining fourth quarter.

Michigan State found itself trailing 58-49 as the final period began but mounted an impressive comeback to continue their flawless start to the season, now standing at an unbeaten 10-0. The Spartans ignited a remarkable 14-0 run, characterized by Hampton’s six points, a three-point shot from Theryn Hallock, and Ayrault’s final five points, bringing the score to 63-58 in their favor. This resurgence culminated in their largest lead of the game at 67-60 with around three minutes left on the clock.

Iowa struggled during this decisive run, failing to convert on seven shooting attempts and going over seven minutes without hitting a basket. Taylor Stremlow eventually broke the drought with a late layup, narrowing the gap to 67-64 with just over a minute remaining in the game.

The Spartans’ defense proved crucial as they managed to hold on to their lead, with notable contributions coming from Jaddan Simmons and Ayrault, who each recorded crucial blocks. Even though Michigan State missed several free throws down the stretch, they remained ahead. After Emma Shumate couldn’t capitalize on two free throw attempts with 30 seconds remaining, Iowa’s Sydney Affolter sank a pair of free throws, closing the score to 67-66 with 19 seconds left.

In the tense final moments, Hallock failed to convert a one-and-one free throw opportunity. Ayrault then blocked an attempt by Affolter, but Iowa retained possession and had another opportunity. Lucy Olsen of Iowa took a last second jumper that fell short, and with just two seconds left, Hampton made one of two free throws to solidify the victory for the Spartans.

In addition to Ayrault’s performance, Grace VanSlooten contributed 14 points, while Hampton finished with 13. For Iowa, Hannah Stuelke led the team with 18 points, followed by Lucy Olsen and Kylie Feuerbach with 13 and 12 points, respectively.