What: MSU vs. Minnesota
When: 1 p.m. Sunday
Radio/TV: WVFN (730-AM)/Comcast SportsNet Chicago
Where: Breslin Center (capacity: 14,992)
The series: MSU leads 29-15; 16-5 in East Lansing
The Spartans have won seven of the last eight games in the series, with the only loss being a 71-58 setback last season in Minneapolis.
Last time out: MSU 84, Minnesota 61 on Feb. 9, 2006, at Breslin Center
Sophomore forward Aisha Jefferson scored what was then a career high with 19 points, and had nine rebounds while senior guards Rene Haynes and Victoria Lucas-Perry combined for 32 points as the Spartans routed Minnesota, 84-61. MSU led 57-27 at halftime, shooting 61 percent in the half. The Golden Gophers turned the ball over 24 times in the game.
Minnesota update: Minnesota entered Thursday's game against Michigan struggling to stay above the .500 mark, having lost five of their previous six games. Guard Kelly Roysland is the team's leading scorer and shoots more 3-pointers than anyone on the team. Controlling her will be a big key for the Spartans.
Minnesota leaders:
Through Feb. 21:
Points: Kelly Roysland (14.0)
Rebounds: Ashley Ellis-Milan (7.5)
Assists: Emily Fox (3.9)
MSU leaders:
Through Feb. 21:
Points: Victoria Lucas-Perry (13.6)
Rebounds: Allyssa DeHaan (7.6)
Assists: Rene Haynes (3.5)
By all accounts, the Spartans should win this game, but the team has had problems finishing off some of the lower-tier teams this year. If the Big Ten title is still a possibility, the Spartans should come out and give a solid performance against the Golden Gophers. Even if it isn't a possibility, it is Senior Day, which will play a big factor in the team's intensity.
