BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Northampton men's basketball team put on a defensive clinic in the second half, limiting visiting Union County College to just 20 points, to claim an 80-53 victory over the Owls on Saturday afternoon at the Arthur L. Scott Center. 

Trailing 33-30 at the half, the Spartans limited the Owls to just 5 field goals and 9 free throws over the final 20 minutes, turning the 3-point deficit into a 27 point victory.  "This was a big one for us," remarked Head Coach Brennan McCarthy, "with the regular season winding down, these Region 19 contests are crucial in terms of seeding for the postseason."

Elijah Hamilton (Atglen, PA/Octorara Jr/Sr) led the Spartans with 24 points and 19 rebounds, while Nate Rivera (Bethlehem, PA/Liberty) and CJ Miles (Bangor, PA/Bangor) each added 11.  

Northampton held Union to just 25% shooting from the field for the game, while knocking down 48% of their attempts, including 54% (15 of 28) in the second half.

The win moves Northampton to 19-9 overall and 12-5 in Region 19.  The Spartans have now won 19 or more games in 7 straight seasons.

Union falls to 15-12 overall and 11-7 in the Region.

Northampton ends the regular season on Sunday when they host Lehigh Carbon at 12pm.