BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The NCC men's basketball team waited one month to face Camden County College and their patience paid off as the Spartans downed Camden, 79-68, on Wednesday night.

The Spartans, who had not played since December 12th, were scheduled to play Camden on December 19th, but a severe winter storm that crippled the northeast forced the postponement of that contest.

Wednesday, the Spartans were anxious to get back on the court, jumping out to a 33-27 lead at the half, behind the play of Joe Bamford (16 points, 7 rebounds) and Michael Wilson (15 points).  

Leading scorer Josh Vargas scored a team-high 23 points and added 5 assists as the Spartans used a strong defensive effort to earn the 79-68 victory.

"I was very pleased with how the team played, given it was our first game in over a month," remarked Head Coach Kevin Foley, "there are always things you can improve on and we definitely have a long list ... but we will take this win and enjoy it until practice tomorrow when we start preparing for Atlantic Cape."

Bryant DeShields led Camden (1-12) with 24 points.

Northampton improves to 6-8 overall and 4-5 in Region XIX.  The Spartans continue their homestand on Friday when they host Atlantic Cape Community College at 7:00pm.