PATERSON, NJ - The 4th ranked NCC women's basketball team opened Region XIX play with a convincing 71-51 victory over perenial power Passaic County Community College on Saturday afternoon.

Shana Clark had 14 points and 14 rebounds and 2011 First Team All-Region selection Halie Cintron added 13 points as the Spartans picked up an important road victory.

"Excellent effort today," commented Head Coach Art Wolfe, "the defensive intensity was great  and everyone really hit the boards hard ... we knew Passaic would be a challenge and the team rose and met that challenge today."

Michelle Thomas hauled down a game-high 16 rebounds, Tiara Aziz had 13 points and sophomores Kiersten Young and Dee Brown added 10 each as NCC won its second consecutive game.

The win improves Northampton to 2-2 overall and 1-0 in Region XIX.

NCC returns to action on Tuesday when they travel to Montgomery County Community College.

Passaic falls to 0-2 overall and 0-2 in Region XIX.