IOWA FALLS, IOWA -- Seeking to return to the win column in an ICCAC matchup with Southwestern CC Wednesday nght, the Ellsworth women's basketball team took a 39-29 lead into the locker room at halftime after a 24-point second quarter and maintained that 10-point advantage after three quarters at Dittmer Gym.  However, the Spartans, after trailing 54-44 heading into the final period, edged ahead in the final stanza and held off the Panthers down the stretch to claim a 72-68 win.

The contest was even at 62-all with just over two minutes remaining, but SWCC made a key 3-pointer and three free throws after a foul on a 3-point try in outscoring ECC, 10-6, at the end of the game.  It was the second straight 4-point loss for the Panthers.

Alyssa Civitak had her best scoring night of the season, pumping in 26 points to lead Ellsworth.  Nineteen of Civitak's points came in the first half.  She also recorded five steals.  Teresa Paulsen had a huge game on the glass, picking off 22 rebounds, 14 on the offensive board.  Autumn Shull delivered 15 points and 9 rebounds.  ECC also got 8 points from Shamika Maria and 6 points and 5 assists from Victoria Parra.

The Panthers now face two consecutive road games -- at NIACC this Saturday and at Kirkwood on Feb. 10.