University of the District of Columbia Women’s Basketball Pulls off a Thriller Against St. Augustine’s College 74-63.
Washington, DC – The University of the District of Columbia Women's Basketball Team used a late 19-3 run and 20 second half points from senior guard Jamilia Bonner (Mobile, AL – Williamson HS) to stage a dramatic comeback victory over visiting St. Augustine's College by a score of 74-63. With the win the Firebirds advance to 8-1 on the season, while the Falcons drop to 4-4 on the year.
St. Augustine's took control of the game early, jumping out to an 11-2 lead at the 14:41 mark in the first half. It looked like the Falcons might run away with it, but the Firebirds showed their resilience and hung in the contest. UDC battled back and gained a 21-20 advantage with 5:19 remaining in the half. The Falcons then went on a 9-3 run to close out the first half with a 29-24 lead. St. Augustine's maintained a firm grip on the ball game all the way up until the 6:52 mark maintaining a 55-50 lead. The Firebirds used baseline to baseline defensive pressure and a run and gun tempo to steal the momentum for the rest of the game. UDC went on a 19-3 run over the next several minutes to take the lead 69-58 with 1:52 remaining. The frenetic final minutes were capped off by a behind the back dribble by Bonner that was followed by a 360 degree spin and three pointer that made the crowd go wild. The Firebirds cruised from there, holding on to win 74-63.
Jamilia Bonner led the Firebirds on the night, scoring 24 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. With the Firebirds down 29-24 at the half, Bonner took over in the second half scoring 20 of her 24 points and grabbing 7 of her 10 rebounds. UDC was also paced by senior forward Dohnay Banice (Wilmington, DE - Williamson HS) who scored 14 points on 6-8 shooting. Banice also grabbed 11 rebounds for UDC. Senior guard Lauren Brittingham (Washington, DC - Oxon Hill/Potomac HS) chipped in 14 points, while senior guard Jasmine Rich (Willingboro, New Jersey - Willingboro HS) dished out 7 assists.
The Firebirds now have a two week layoff and return to action on Thursday, December 29th against Franklin Pierce at the C.W. Post Classic in Long Island, NY.