Griffin's late free throws help No. 19 Georgia stop No. 16 Michigan State's comeback, 69-60

ATHENS, Ga. — Tiaria Griffin scored 15 points, including four free throws in the final minute, and No. 19 Georgia, which led by 23 points in the first half, held off No. 16 Michigan State 69-60 on Sunday.

Michigan State twice cut the lead to five points in the final minute with baskets by Tori Jankoska, who had 16 points. Georgia iced the win with free throws from Griffin and Marjorie Butler.

"On the bright side we came out with a win," said Butler, who had 11 points. "The negative is we let them come back."

Krista Donald had 12 points for Georgia (10-0).

Aerial Powers had 18 points and nine rebounds for the Spartans (5-2), ending her streak of six straight double-doubles. Jasmine Hines had 12 points and Becca Mills had eight points and 10 rebounds.

Georgia's big lead was 36-13 late in the first half.

"It was kind of about what we weren't doing," said Michigan State coach Suzy Merchant. "We were trying to do it all individually and jacking up shots. ... I thought Georgia did a good job of rattling us a little bit."

Georgia coach Andy Landers said the Lady Bulldogs "started terrifically" but added "it didn't change the fact Michigan State is very good."

The Spartans outscored Georgia 39-33 in the second half but couldn't overcome the big deficit.

"Unfortunately, you can't put yourself down like that," Merchant said.

Landers applauded his team's response to the Spartans' comeback.

"I was really proud we put our foot back on them a little bit," Landers said. "We did exactly what you need to do at the free throw line in close games."

Michigan State settled for a split against Georgia state teams following a home win over Georgia Tech on Thursday night.