By AP
IOWA CITY, IA – Matt Gatens scored 19 points as Iowa beat Michigan State 72-52 on Wednesday night, handing the reeling Spartans their fourth loss in five games.
The Hawkeyes (9-13, 2-8 Big Ten) started off hot on the way to just their second win in their past 10 tries.
Gatens hit a 3-pointer to open the game and push Iowa into a 15-2 scoring drive, which involved two jumpers from Eric May and shots from Jarryd Cole, Bryce Cartwright and Gatens
The Hawkeyes continued their attack throughout the first half with 13 points from the bench and led 41-20 at the half.
Iowa focused on defense the second half, posting five steals and maintaining a healthy lead.
Kalin Lucas scored 17 points to lead Michigan State (13-9, 5-5). The Spartans have lost four straight road games.