Spartans Defeat Warriors in Match up of South Division Leaders

AURORA, Ill. January 13, 2009 - The Aurora University Spartans defeated the Wisconsin Lutheran College Warriors 68-56 Tuesday night at Thornton Gymnasium in a key Northern Athletics Conference matchup.

Senior forwards Kim Voiles and Meagan Re sparked a hot start for the Spartans, as the duo combined for seven of the Spartans’ first nine points. The Warriors, however, were not fazed as they worked their way back into the game, going on a 10-3 run to take a 14-12 lead with 10:56 remaining in the first half. Following an AU timeout, the Spartans regained the lead at the six minute mark due in large part to the play of sophomore Jessica Mason and her six points. The Warriors and Spartans would go on to trade baskets in the final minutes, and at halftime, the Warriors led 30-28.

The Spartans came out of the break and scored four quick points to retake the lead 32-30 with 18:42 left. However, the determined Warriors would fight back and regain the lead, making the score 40-37 with 12 minutes remaining. Yet, the Spartans would fight back and take the lead away, as they went on a 15-6 run with six minutes left in the half to make the score 52-43. A Michelle Perry 3-pointer with 2:56 left to play made the score 59-48 and would seal the game for the Spartans. AU would go on to win 68-56.

Top Spartan performers included sophomore guard Ashley Daniels (14 points), Voiles (16 points), and Mason (19 points).

With the win, the Spartans extend their winning streak to five games and improve to 9-5 (6-2 NAC) while the Warriors fall to 5-6 (3-2 NAC).

Next action for the Spartans comes on Saturday, January 17, 2009, when they travel to Sheboygan, Wisconsin to take on the Lakeland College Muskies. Game time is set for 2:00pm.