By Dylan Bestler

(Sparkill, NY-February 3rd, 2016)- The Lady Spartans took on NYIT (New York Institute of Technology) at home on the day when STAC was honoring all the women athletes for their hardwork and dedication towards their respected sport.

Unfortunately for the Spartans, they could not get a win in front of the large home crowd; NYIT defeated them, 67-61. It took a while for NYIT’s offense to kick in. The Spartans had the first six points but then NYIT went on a nice run. They finished the first quarter beating the Spartans, 21-15.

NYIT came out hot at start of the second quarter but a late surge by the Spartans put them at halftime down by only four; 33-29. At halftime, the women’s cross country team was honored for their accomplishment last season. The women’s cross country team placed third in the region to make it into nationals in Joplin, Missouri, a feat the team has never accomplished before. Back to basketball; 4:30 into the third quarter and NYIT coach received a technical foul which led to two Spartan free throws. Sophomore Jenna Erickson made both to put them down

In the 4th quarter, the Spartans saw their first lead of the game since the first quarter when NYIT foul sent junior Samantha Burden to the foul line. She made both free throws to put STAC up 52-51. NYIT re-gained control of the game as they scored the next seven points. The Spartans had their chances but they missed six shots in the last ninety seconds of the game.

Final score: 67-61, NYIT.

After the game, women athletes from the sports teams at STAC and the NYIT basketball team came down to the center of the gym to be honored and take a picture along with young girl scouts and CYO member in the Rockland County area.

The Lady Spartans’ next game is at LIU Post on February 6th and their next home game is February 11th versus Daemen.