COL BKB: Michigan St. 51, Illinois 41

EAST LANSING, Mich., Jan. 31 (UPI) -- Drew Neitzel scored 15 points Wednesday and No. 7 Michigan State overcame a poor shooting night to defeat Illinois 51-41.

The Spartans improved to 19-2, the best record through 21 games in the 109-year history of Michigan State basketball.

Michigan State shot only 37 percent from the field, but the Spartans held Illinois to just 30 percent. The Fighting Illini managed a mere 17 points in the second half, during which Michigan State enjoyed a 9-0 run with Neitzel scoring all nine points.

Goran Suton added 10 points and 10 rebounds for Michigan State (7-1 Big Ten). The Spartans have won five in a row and 16 of their last 17.

Illinois (10-12, 2-7) was led by seven points each from Mike Tisdale and Calvin Brock.