Spartans Defeated By No. 13 Penn State

Feb 9, 2003

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) - If Penn State were ever considered a one-player team, they shouldn't be anymore.

Penn State star Kelly Mazzante scored a season-low eight points but it didn't matter as three Nittany Lions scored in double figures to lead No. 13 Penn State over Michigan State 64-60.

Big Ten-leading Penn State improves to 20-5 overall, 10-1 in conference. The Spartans fall to 13-8, 6-4.

Jess Strom led all scorers with 19 and Tanisha Wright and Jennifer Brenden added 12 points each for Penn State. The Spartans were led by 14 points each from Kelli Roehrig, Liz Shimek and Syreeta Bromfield.

"I got some shots tonight but they just weren't falling," said Mazzante, who entered the game third in the nation at 25.7 points a game. "I think that's what makes this team so special. We have other players who can step up."

It was Strom who stepped up in the closing moments, nailing six consecutive free throws in the last 1:11 to clinch the victory. Michigan State made a late rally, including two 3-pointers from Bromfield in the last minute, but it wasn't enough.

After trailing 29-26 at halftime, Penn State took control in the second half. A fastbreak layup by Wright gave the Nittany Lions a 39-38 lead with 13:20 left and Penn State never trailed again.

Michigan State coach Joanne P. McCallie said she was disappointed in her team's effort.

"I don't think we played well together," McCallie said. "I think (Penn State) out-toughed us, which is unfortunate. They showed why they are the top team in league right now."

While the Spartans' zone defense forced Mazzante into 4-of-15 shooting, Wright was able to find seams and take advantage. In an important stretch about midway through the second half, Wright scored consecutive baskets and tossed an assist to give Penn State control.

"Our game plan was to just attack," said Wright, who also added seven assists.

Penn State coach Rene Portland said Wright was a key component in getting the Spartans tough defense unnerved.

"Her game is penetration and she has great moves," Portland said of Wright.

The Spartans had several chances to cut the lead down in the last five minutes but couldn't convert. Three of Michigan State's starters, Julie Pagel, Kristin Haynie and Lindsay Bowen combined to shoot just 5-of-22.

"It hurts to know that they came in our house and wanted it more than we did," Bromfield said.