UDC Firebirds Down Chowan, 65-58

Washington, DC : January 24, 2009—The University of the District of Columbia Firebirds Men’s Basketball Team used a 22-9 run to open its game against the Chowan University Hawks and go on to defeat them, 65-58, in the Physical Activities Center this afternoon. Sophomore guard Tim Ellison (Alexandria, VA) paced the Firebirds to the win with game-high 24-points (5 three-pointers) and 4 rebounds.

Also scoring in double figures for the Firebirds was senior guard Kechan Myers (Philadelphia. PA) with 17-points and 7 rebounds, and junior forward David Burton (Philadelphia, PA) who scored 11-points and grabbed 9 rebounds. UDC shot 56 percent (14 for 25) from the field, and 46 percent (5 for 11) from beyond the arc during the first half to take a 34-21 lead into the half-time break. UDC’s starters scored all but 7 of their first-half points, while Chowan went to their bench to deliver 21-points for them.

The second half was dramatically different for the Hawks, as they re-grouped to shoot 48 percent (12 for 25) from the field and whittle the score down, twice, to 3-points before succumbing to the Firebirds. Guard Jaleel Nelson led the second half charge, scoring 11-points, but it was not enough.

UDC shot 50 percent (26 for 52) from the field, 32 percent (6 for 19) from three-point range and 64 percent (7 of 11) from the charity stripe for the game. Chowan shot 40 percent (19 for 47) from the field, 29 percent (7 for 24) from beyond the arc, and 83 percent (5 of 6) from the free throw line for the game. Two Chowan players were in double figures, including Brown and guard Devin Posey, who also scored 11-points.

UDC improved their record to 7-12 with this win, while Chowan dropped to 10-8. UDC returns to action on Wednesday, January 28, at home against Philadelphia University.