In a thrilling matchup on Saturday, No. 21 Michigan State emerged victorious against No. 24 Michigan, with a decisive score of 88-58. Theryn Hallock was instrumental for the Spartans, registering 23 of her 25 points in a dominant second half, while Julia Ayrault contributed greatly with a double-double, reflecting the team’s strong performance.

Entering the second half, Michigan State (17-3, 7-2 Big Ten) was trailing by four points but quickly turned the tide, outscoring the Wolverines 59-25 after the break. The Spartans ignited their game early in the third quarter, executing a remarkable 15-0 run that included three 3-pointers within the first four and a half minutes, taking a commanding 44-33 lead. After a couple of free throws by Jordan Hobbs narrowed the gap for Michigan, the Wolverines struggled to find the basket, allowing Michigan State to extend their lead efficiently.

Hallock’s rapid scoring included two layups, while Ayrault and Grace Vanslooten also made significant contributions during an eight-point stretch that lifted the Spartans to a 53-38 advantage. As the third quarter closed, Hallock completed the period with a 3-pointer and a layup just before the buzzer, giving Michigan State a solid 60-45 lead heading into the final quarter. They continued to dominate, outscoring Michigan 28-13 in the fourth.

In total, Ayrault finished with 18 points, 13 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. Meanwhile, Vanslooten also netted 18 points, and Jaddan Simmons contributed 11, marking Michigan State’s fifth consecutive win. For the Wolverines (14-6, 5-4), Hobbs was the leading scorer with 15 points, followed closely by Olivia Olson with 14 and Mila Holloway with 13. The loss ended Michigan’s four-game winning streak.

Michigan initially gained an 18-17 lead at the close of the first quarter, having benefited from Hobbs’ successful free throws in the final minutes. The Wolverines managed to build a seven-point lead during the second quarter but had to settle for a narrow 33-29 advantage at halftime.

Up next for Michigan is a game against Wisconsin on Wednesday, while Michigan State will host Oregon on Thursday.