Box Score

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.- In their first meeting in over a decade, Western Michigan fell to No. 21/21 Michigan State, 74-51, but did not go down with a fight, playing the Spartans in front of 4,058 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Western Michigan hung in the game through the first half behind a solid defensive effort and poor shooting by Michigan State. MSU made just one of its first nine shots before going on a run  to lead 33-23 at the half. The Broncos were as close as two, 23-21, with 5:46 left in the first but never led in the game.

Able bodies was another area that hindered the Broncos throughout the game. Sophomore Miame Giden and junior Brenna Banktson picked up three fouls each in the first half and freshman DeAirra Goss left the game with injury three minutes into the game and did not return. Banktson would foul out midway through the second half.

Senior Sara Vest led the Broncos with 15 points and eight rebounds, while holding Michigan State’s 6-9 Allyssa DeHaan in check defensively. DeHaan made 3-of-14 from the floor and finished with only seven points.

Giden scored in double digits for the fourth straight game pumping in 10 points while Jenny Loney also had 10 points. Robin Giden made her first appearance of the season playing 10 minutes, grabbing three rebounds and blocking two shots.

The smaller Western Michigan team battled down low, being outrebounded by just four, 43-39. Michigan State’s roster featured nine players over six feet tall. The long arms affected WMU’s shooting however, as the Broncos shot 28 percent for the game. The Spartans were able to get into passing lanes as well, forcing 30 turnovers.

Lykendra Johnson led Michigan State (2-2) with 21 points and Aisha Jefferson chipped in 12.

Western Michigan (1-3) plays its next four games on the road next traveling to Carbondale, Ill., to take on Sourthern Illinois on Nov. 25.