It might not have been a high-scoring game or, for that matter a pretty one, but Union’s varsity Spartans got the job done against James Kenan Thursday night, defeating the visitors 35-33.

Natrone Banks had a big play in the third quarter to help elevate the Spartans and help get them back in the game.

Union held the early first quarter lead at 7-2, but the Tigers came roaring back in the second frame, outscoring the home team 15-11, giving the Spartans a slim 18-17 lead heading into the half.

“We had a problem putting the ball in the basket,” Union coach Tim Pope said. “Natrone gave us the lift we needed. He scored 8 points in the third quarter alone.”

Kenan had a 31-29 at the end of the third period, but Union had been down by as many as 6 before the frame ended.

The Spartans, Pope said, managed to hold the ball for about 4 minutes in the final period, preventing the Tigers from getting the ball and a basket.

The score was tied at 33 when Banks made a basket with about 1 minute left.

James Kenan had another scoring opportunity, but missed their shot, and Union held on for the win.

Leading scoring for Union was Banks with 13 points and Baheem Murphy with 8.

The win moves the Spartan record to 10-7 overall and 7-1 in conference. They travel to Pender Tuesday.