Michigan State Women's Basketball Dominates Mercyhurst in Season Opener

No. 23 Spartans set program records in 125-39 blowout victory

Feb. 3, 2026 at 5:55am

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The No. 23 Michigan State women's basketball team opened their season with a resounding 125-39 victory over Mercyhurst, setting program records for points scored and margin of victory. Sophomore guard Theryn Hallock and freshman forward Grace VanSlooten combined for 37 points on 16-of-21 shooting, while senior center Kennedy Blair recorded a double-double in the lopsided win.

Why it matters

Michigan State is looking to build on a strong 2025-26 campaign that saw them reach the NCAA Tournament. This dominant season-opening performance against an overmatched Mercyhurst squad demonstrates the Spartans' offensive firepower and depth, which could make them a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten and nationally this year.

The details

Michigan State shot a blistering 57.1% from the field, including 43.8% from 3-point range, in the blowout win. The Spartans also outrebounded Mercyhurst 53-26 and forced 24 turnovers. Hallock scored 19 points, while VanSlooten added 18 points. Blair finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds for the double-double.

  • The game was played on November 7, 2026, the opening day of the 2026-27 NCAA women's basketball season.

The players

Theryn Hallock

A sophomore guard for the Michigan State Spartans women's basketball team.

Grace VanSlooten

A freshman forward for the Michigan State Spartans women's basketball team.

Kennedy Blair

A senior center for the Michigan State Spartans women's basketball team.

Mercyhurst Lakers

The women's basketball team from Mercyhurst University, a Division II school located in Erie, Pennsylvania.

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What they’re saying

“We came out with a lot of energy and really set the tone early. It was a great team effort and a solid way to start the season.”

— Theryn Hallock, Sophomore Guard, Michigan State Spartans

What’s next

Michigan State will look to build on this dominant performance when they face off against No. 15 Oregon on November 15th.

The takeaway

Michigan State's decisive season-opening win over Mercyhurst showcases the Spartans' offensive firepower and depth, which could make them a formidable team in the Big Ten and NCAA Tournament this season.