Notes: MSU’s work at free-throw line paying off

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – “Isn’t it ironic,” Travis Trice said in the victorious Michigan State locker room Sunday night at State Farm Center, after free throws helped the Spartans beat Illinois 60-53.

The last time MSU lost, of course, the Spartans went 7-for-18 from the foul line, including late misses from Trice and Bryn Forbes that squandered a late chance to steal the game. Illinois held on, 59-54, on Feb. 7 at Breslin Center, and MSU coach Tom Izzo and his players were faced with the prospect of missing out on an NCAA tournament bid. - Read more at Freep.com