Eagles Defeat Spartans in Overtime

AURORA, Ill. January 27, 2009 - The Benedictine University Eagles defeated the Aurora University Spartans 86-82 in overtime Tuesday night at Thornton Gymnasium in Northern Athletics Conference action.

After a sluggish start to the game by both teams, the Eagles managed to take 16-10 lead midway through the first half. The Eagles would extend their lead to 29-23 with two minutes remaining thanks to a three-pointer by freshman guard Tracey Walsh. At the half, the Spartans trailed 33-28. For the half, senior forward Kim Voiles led all scorers with 10 points.

The Spartans started the second half on a 14-7 run to take the lead 42-40 with 14 minutes remaining in the contest. The lead would change hands a number of times throughout the half, and the Spartans and Eagles would be tied 72-72 heading into the final minute. However, neither team could capitalize on their final possessions, and, at the end of regulation, the score was 72-72.

In overtime, lead changes, again, were the story. The Eagles took the lead 82-79 with a minute remaining. Yet, an Eagle foul on a sophomore forward Michelle Perry basket and subsequent free throw tied the game again at 82-82 with 40 seconds. However, on the following possession, senior guard Laketa Simpson scored the game-winning basket for the Eagles. Benedictine would go on to win, 86-82.

Top Spartan performers included Voiles (16 points), senior forward Meagan Re (21 points), and Perry (17 points).

With the loss, the Spartans fall to 11-7 (8-4 NAC) while the Eagles improve to 8-9 (5-6 NAC).

Next action for the Spartans comes on Thursday, January 29, 2009, when the Spartans travel to Milwaukee to take on the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Game time is set for 7:00pm.