Few things in college basketball end January panic within a fanbase more effectively than a win over a Top 10 opponent—especially when that opponent is a conference foe.
The No. 11 Michigan State Spartans were reeling after three straight losses coming into their Saturday showdown with the No. 7 Maryland Terrapins at the Breslin Center, but the Spartans snapped the skid with a 74-65 victory. Denzel Valentine led the way with 19 points, 14 rebounds and eight assists, and Matt Costello played a perfect supporting role with 15 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks, two steals and a handful of critical plays in the closing moments.