Box Score PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - Meeting for the second time this season as nationally-ranked top-ten foes, 8th ranked Northampton evened the season series with #10 Philadelphia, downing the Lions 81-72 on Tuesday evening in Region XIX men's basketball action. Spartan sophomore Tony James (Harrisburg, PA/Harrisburg ) scored 23 points, grabbed 16 rebounds and dished out 5 assists to lead Northampton. 

Trailing at halftime 40-35, the Spartans held the Lions to just 32 points in the second half, including just 9 field goals, while putting up 46 points of their own to secure the victory. 

"The guys really competed in the second half," commented Head Coach Brennan McCarthy, "this is a very difficult place to play, let alone win, so I am very proud of the effort tonight and how the guys battled all game to earn this victory."

In addition to James, who finished 8 for 14 from the floor and 6 of 8 from the line, Nasir Scott (Philadelphia, PA/Boys Latin of Philadelphia) added 16 points on 7 of 9 shooting and Marquise McClean (York, PA/William Penn ) had 15 points to lead the Spartans. 

McClean added 12 rebounds and Scott hauled down 8, while Brian McKenzie (Lancaster, PA/J.P. McCaskey) tied James with a team-high 5 assists. 

The win moves Northampton to 21-2 overall, 17-2 in Region XIX and 11-1 in the EPAC.

Philadelphia, who defeated the Spartans 80-69 on December 3rd, falls to 19-3 overall, 15-3 in Region XIX and 11-2 in conference play. 

D'Andre Davis (York, PA/York Catholic ) added 9 points for Northampton. 

The Spartans are back in action on Thursday when they host another nationally-ranked opponent, as 14th ranked Montgomery County Community College (19-4) visits the Arthur L. Scott Center for a 7pm tip.