UDC FIREBIRDS CAME CLOSE BUT COULD NOT GET THE WIN

Washington, DC: The University of the District of Columbia Firebirds Basketball team came close to their first win of the season tonight, but could not put the St. Paul’s College Tigers away, losing 61-63, at home. In a game during which the score was tied – 6 times, and the lead changed- 12 times, the Firebirds did not have the manpower to put this game in their win column.

St. Paul’s led 30-29 at the half, with the Tiger bench outscoring the Firebird’s bench 11-4. The lead changed – 4 times during the half. The second half was much of the same.

It was a very close game until the end, with neither team able to put together a scoring run on the other. UDC made 32 percent of their two point attempts for the game, while St. Paul’s hit 40% of their 2-point field goals, and 46 percent of their 3-point shots.

Bruce Royal paced the Tigers scoring 12 points, followed by Tristan Rankin with 11 and Marcus Mitchell with 10 points.

Jumaane Sorrells continued to lead the Firebirds, putting up 21 points tonight, while Frank Peterson scored 15, and Brian Isabelle added 13 points. With this loss, the Firebirds season record is now 0-13.

UDC’s next game will be at home against the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown on Saturday, January 21, at 4 p.m. This will be the second part of a double header, which features the Lady Firebirds taking on the Florida Gulf Coast Lady Eagles in the first game at 2 p.m.