Firebirds Sweep Season Series Against Mavericks

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y.- the University of the District of Columbia's men's basketball team defeated Mercy University 78-71, Saturday afternoon at the Mercy Gymnasium. The Firebirds sweep the season series for the second consecutive year and move to 4-4 in conference play while the Mavericks slip to 0-8.

Hartnel Haye led the Firebirds with his second consecutive double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Micah Campbell also posted a double-double off 12 rebounds, 11 points and two blocks. Eric Morgan Jr scored 15 points, Tevin Curtis scored 11 and Toren Portee added nine.

The Mavericks took the early lead before both teams went tit for tat with the score. Mercy was able to take a three point lead into the half. 

Campbell cut the deficit to just one after making the first layup of the second half. While the home team led majority of the way, Nicolaus Kenton knocked down two free throws with 8:37 remaining in regulation to make it a one point game. Haye then made two back to back layups to give UDC their first lead of the half. The Firebirds went on to open a lead that the Mavericks couldn't overcome. 

The Firebirds shot 41.3% from the field and the Mavericks shot 44.1%. UDC had the slight edge in rebounds (44-42) and forced 19 turnovers, converting 23 points compared to the Mavericks 12. Second chance points was a game changer for UDC as they had 26 points compared to Mercy's 6.

Up next UDC (6-11, 4-4 ECC) will host Roberts Wesleyan next Saturday at 3:00pm.