BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Tiara Aziz converted one of two free throws with 9.2 seconds remaining to break a 63-63 deadlock and give the Northampton women's basketball team a 64-63 victory over visiting Middlesex County College on Thursday evening at the Arthur L. Scott Spartan Center.

Middlesex jumped out to an early 6-0 lead before Northampton responded with a 9-0 run to take the lead in what was see-saw first half that ended with the Spartans leading 28-26.

The second half proved to be more of the same with neither team taking more than a 3 point advantage until NCC went ahead 59-54 late in the game.  The Colts responded with six straight points in the paint to take a 60-59 advantage before Aziz (26 points) tied the game converting one of two free throws.  Katie Schickling (10 points) then put NCC ahead with a driving layup, making the score 62-60.

Janea Clark, who led Middlesex with 15 points, then scored and was fouled and converted the 3-point play to give the Colts the lead at 63-62.  Aziz then took a pass from Alyssa Gibson (13 points, 4 assists) and was fouled going to the hoop. Aziz converted one of two to tie the contest at 63.  Middlesex then tried to push the ball inside, but Brianna Clymer got a steal and got the ball to Aziz who dribbled out front and then attacked the rim with just under 10 seconds remaining, where she was fouled and hit the winning free throw.  Middlesex had an opportunity to win the game after Aziz missed her second free throw, but could not get off a shot.

Felicia Shaner added 10 points and 11 rebounds for Northampton.

The win propels the 5th ranked Spartans to 18-1 overall (6-0 EPAC).

Middlesex falls to 11-6 overall (7-3 GSAC).

Northampton returns to the hardwood on January 29th when they travel to Blue Bell, Pa. to face Montgomery County Community College.  The women's game will tip second, with game time slated for 7pm.