BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Northampton Women's Basketball team jumped out to an early lead and continued their recent strong play by picking up a 64-44 victory over visiting Atlantic Cape Community College on Tuesday night at the Arthur L. Scott Center.

The Spartans led 20-8 after the first quarter and carried 41-19 lead into the intermission. The Spartans held off a second half rally by the Buccaneers but had created enough distance in the first half to cruise to the 20 point win. The win is the second straight victory for the Spartans to open the second half of the season.

"I was pleased with the overall effort tonight," stated Spartans Head Coach Carly Gallagher, "We came out strong from the opening tip and built a nice lead early and carried that momentum into halftime. We found ourselves in a bit of a battle in the second half and that was a good test for us. I felt we responded well and came out with a nice win."

The Spartans were led by freshman forward Neoshe Perez (Bath, PA/Executive Charter) who hit for 15 points and 16 rebounds for her second consecutive double-double. Nia Brown (Bethlehem, PA/Executive Charter) contributed with 16 points along with 7 rebounds and 4 blocks. Layla Sweatte (Allentown, PA/William Allen) added 16 points and 7 boards and Abymarie Colon (Easton, PA/Wilson) scored 14 points while dishing off 4 assists and collecting 3 steals. Joey-Madison Shaul (Whitehall, PA/Whitehall) scored 3 points and had 9 rebounds in the win..

The Spartans improve to 10-4 overall and 6-3 in Region 19 with the victory.

The Buccaneers slip to 7-5 overall and 4-4 in the Region.

The Spartans are back in action on Thursday evening when they host the Camden County Cougars at 5pm at the Arthur L. Scott Center.