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Spartans Eyeing Undefeated Streak Against Wildcats
9 Jan
Summary
- Michigan State is ranked No. 12 nationally and boasts a 13-2 record.
- Northwestern enters the game with an 8-6 record and struggles in conference play.
- Nick Martinelli is Northwestern's leading scorer, averaging 23.0 points per game.
Michigan State is preparing to host Northwestern on Thursday evening at the Breslin Center, with tip-off scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The Spartans, currently ranked No. 12 nationally, have a strong 13-2 overall record and a 3-1 standing in Big Ten games. They enter the week as significant favorites against a Wildcats team that has an 8-6 overall record and has yet to secure a conference win, sitting at 0-3 in the Big Ten.
Northwestern's offense is largely driven by forward Nick Martinelli, who is averaging 23.0 points per game, a figure that places him just shy of the national scoring lead. Despite Martinelli's prowess, the Wildcats have struggled, particularly with perimeter shooting and defensive rebounding. Michigan State, conversely, is noted for its strong defense, ranking second nationally in defensive efficiency and excelling in both offensive and defensive rebounding.
The Spartans are expected to be near full strength, with sophomore guard Divine Ugochukwu having returned from illness. Freshman forward Cam Ward is also regaining confidence in his wrist after an injury. While Northwestern has posed challenges for Michigan State in recent years, the Spartans' home-court advantage, combined with their superior rankings and statistical advantages, suggests they are well-positioned for a victory.
