Northwestern is missing some key players for a road showdown vs. No. 10 Michigan State but that has not slowed down the Wildcats.

With a 7-1 run to close the first half, Northwestern carries a 38-33 lead into halftime. Michigan State had a great look at a bucket to finish the half but Gabe Brown’s 3-point attempt bounced out.

The Wildcats are playing Saturday’s game without their leading scorer and rebounder in Pete Nance. Nance and Elyjah Williams were ruled out for the game prior to tipoff. Nance leads Northwestern with 17.1 points and 7.7 rebounds this season, along with a team-high 1.6 blocks.

Throughout the first half, turnovers have once again proven to be an issue for Tom Izzo’s Spartans. Michigan State shot 50% from the field but had as many turnovers as made field goals through the first 20 minutes (12-for-24 shooting, 12 turnovers).

The play of guards Boo Buie and Chase Audige has been key for the Wildcats. They have combined for 17 points with a combined 5-for-7 shooting from 3-point range.

Gabe Brown and Julius Marble II have paced the Spartans with 8 points apiece though Brown will start the half in a bit of foul trouble with 2. Star freshman Max Christie was held to 2 points on 1-for-5 shooting while going 0-for-4 from 3-point range.

You can catch the 2nd half of the action on BTN.