Junior guard Zachary Olukanni led the way for the Firebirds scoring 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting, eight rebounds, and two steals.
Junior guard Zachary Olukanni led the way for the Firebirds scoring 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting, eight rebounds, and two steals.

Smart Play and Efficient Shooting Leads Firebirds to Road Victory

Dobbs Ferry, NY – The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team fought back from a nine point halftime deficit to defeat Mercy College 84-74 Saturday afternoon. Four Firebirds finished in double figures with three players finishing with 18 points in scoring. Junior guard Zachary Olukanni led the way for the Firebirds scoring 18 points on 8-of-12 shooting, eight rebounds, and two steals. Senior guard Kevin Cox led the Firebirds in the first half scoring 10 of his 18 points off a series of dunks, acrobatic layups, and three pointers. Senior guard Danny Shand and freshman guard Juanye Colon were spark plugs off the bench in the second half. Danny Shand scored all 12 of his points in the second half as well as defensively grabbing two steals. Juanye Colon scored 15 of his 18 points on 5-of-7 shooting from behind the three point line. ECC assists leader senior guard  Quadire Truesdale facilitated the offense by dishing out eight assists and scoring eight points.

The Mavericks were led by Bryan Griffin, who finished the game with a double-double of 30 points and 13 rebounds. Amir Atkins led the Mavericks bench with 17 points. Despite being out rebounded, the Firebirds won the game behind efficient shooting and defense. UDC shoot the ball 45 percent from the field and 46 percent from behind the three point line. Neither team got to the free throw line much, but the Firebirds were the better team making 83 percent of their free throws while the Mavericks only made 63 percent of their free throws. A 21-10 points off turnovers difference made the Difference for the Firebirds en route to their 10 point victory over the Mavericks.

The Firebirds will stay on the road and travel Brookville, NY to take on LIU Post Thursday, February 7th. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.