Spartans Rally Falls Short In Evanston, Now 0-5 in Big Ten

Michigan State has started 0-5 in Big Ten conference play for the first time since 2002 as they dropped a 77-70 road game to Northwestern at Welsh-Ryan Arena Sunday afternoon. The win meant a season sweep for the Wildcats. Michigan State (8-8, 0-5 Big Ten) started out strong going up by nine early in the game, however, a five minute scoring drought combined with a 16-0 Wildcat run pushed Northwestern (13-2, 3-1) up by 18 and they never trailed again leading 44-29 at the half. Michigan State did rally late in the second half and managed to get within 2 with 1:20 to go but the Wildcats rolled off five straight points to seal the victory. Michigan State had three players in double figures led by Aerial Powers who scored 24, Tori Jankoska added 18 and Becca Mills chipped in 14. Northwestern was led by Ashley Deary who scored 18. Michigan State next takes the court on Thursday night with they host Illinois at Breslin Center. Pregame coverage begins at 6:45 pm on Lansing's Big Talker 1240 WJIM.