After a three-year drought, Michigan State is returning to the Sweet Sixteen.

Minnesota scored the first basket of the game, but it was the only time Michigan State trailed in Saturday’s second round matchup, as the Spartans cruised to a 70-50 victory over the Gophers. Michigan State joined Michigan as the second B1G team to reach the Sweet Sixteen.

It marks the first time since 2015 that the Spartans have advanced to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament.

Michigan State was unconscious from the floor early in the game and took a 31-11 lead late in the first half. Minnesota ended the half on an 8-2 run to close the gap to 33-19, giving the Gophers some life entering the locker room.

The Spartans started the second half well and bumped the lead to 40-23 before Minnesota made a strong push to get back into the contest. The Gophers went on an 8-0 run to come within single digits, but Winston scored the next seven points for Michigan State and essentially ended any hopes of an upset.

Winston finished the game with 13 points, nine assists and four rebounds. The Spartans were led in scoring by Xavier Tillman, who had 14 points. Matt McQuaid, Kenny Goins, Aaron Henry and Nick Ward each had nine points in the victory.

Michigan State also dominated Minnesota on the glass, outrebounding the Gophers 45-19. That, as well as a 57.1 percent shooting night, trumped a 22-turnover night for the Spartans.

Amir Coffey led the way for Minnesota with 27 points. He was the only Gopher to reach double figures.

Michigan State will take on LSU in the Sweet Sixteen.