Spartans Defeat Muskies in NAC Tourney

AURORA, Ill. February 24, 2009 - The Aurora University Spartan women’s basketball team defeated the Lakeland College Muskies 76-69 Tuesday night in the opening round of the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament.

The Muskies jumped out to an early 8-0 lead in the first two minutes behind two three-point baskets and a pair of free throws.

However, the Spartans would tie the game off a layup by sophomore guard Ashley Daniels with eight minutes remaining, making the score 17-17.

The rest of the half was a back-and-forth affair, as both teams managed to take the lead on multiple occasions, yet neither team could hold the lead very long. At halftime, the Muskies led 30-29. Senior forward Meagan Re led the Spartans with 12 points for the half.

The second half featured the same story line, as neither team could gain the upper hand. The Spartans came out of halftime and regained the lead, making the score 40-37 with 13 minutes left in the contest. The Spartans would extend their lead with five minutes left, as they made the score 60-54.

Minutes later, the Spartans led 70-60 thanks to a layup by senior forward Kim Voiles. A three-point field goal by sophomore center Michelle Perry with 55 seconds to play would clinch the game for the Spartans. The Spartans would go to win 76-69.

Top Spartan performers included Perry (22 points and seven rebounds), Voiles (18 points, 10 rebounds and six assists), Re (15 points) and Daniels (11 points and seven assists).

With the win, the Spartans advance to the second round of the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament, where they will meet the top seeded Warriors of Wisconsin Lutheran College. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. in Milwaukee, WI.