LANSING, Mich. — In a solid performance, reserve player Grace VanSlooten contributed significantly to the No. 20 Michigan State’s victory over Washington on Sunday, scoring 19 points and pulling down 12 rebounds, marking her third double-double of the season. Alongside her, Julia Ayrault also matched the scoring tally with 19 points and collected eight rebounds. The Spartans secured an 80-68 win, improving their record to 13-3 overall and 3-2 in Big Ten play.

Theryn Hallock and Ines Sotelo each added 11 points to the team’s score. The game began with a competitive edge, as Washington managed a brief lead early in the second half, sparked by a combination of free throws from Elle Ladine, a basket from Sayvia Sellers, and a three-pointer from Ladine, giving the Huskies a one-point edge shortly after the break.

However, Michigan State quickly responded, netting seven consecutive points that established a 48-42 advantage with just under five minutes remaining in the third quarter. From that point on, the Spartans maintained control of the game.

For Washington, Sellers led the scoring with 21 points, while Ladine contributed 17 and Hannah Stines added 11 points. Dalayah Daniels was notable on the boards as well, grabbing 11 rebounds along with six points, three steals, and two blocks. The defeat for Washington ended their five-game winning streak.

In the fourth quarter, Hallock was instrumental in widening the Spartans’ lead, scoring seven points during a 9-4 run that gave Michigan State a comfortable 12-point cushion three minutes into the period. The Huskies struggled to close the gap and trailed by at least seven points for the remainder of the game.

Michigan State capitalized on Washington’s mistakes, scoring 22 points off the 20 turnovers committed by the Huskies. Additionally, the Spartans showcased depth in their roster by outscoring Washington 31-13 in points contributed by bench players.

Looking ahead, Washington gears up for a matchup against No. 25 Michigan, while Michigan State prepares to face Rutgers, with both games scheduled for Wednesday.