Firebirds Clinch Victory over Salem Tigers

Washington, DC- The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team defeated the Salem Tigers 68-64, Wednesday evening at the UDC Gymnasium. The Firebirds improved to a 6-14 overall record, while the Tigers fell to 5-14 on the season.

UDC was led offensively by Rookie of the week Latavia Jackson, who had another double figure scoring game. Jackson packed the stat sheet with 17 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, a block and a steal. She was followed up by teammate Alexus King who also packed the stat sheet with 13 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three steals. 

The firebirds had a great start, going 60% from the field while holding the Tigers to just 13.3%. Salem came back in the second quarter to outscore UDC 20-18, but it wasn't enough to make up the deficit as they went into the half down by 14 points. 

The Firebirds outscored the Tigers 19-17 in the third quarter but struggled in the last quarter to make a shot, dropping to 11.1% shooting from the field. Salem took advantage of this and had their best offensive quarter of the game scoring 22 points to decrease the lead to a two-point game with just seconds left to go. Maya Thomas was able to draw a foul and sink two free throws to secure victory for the Firebirds. 

Next up UDC (6-14, 2-6 ECC) will host Mercy College on Wednesday February 5 at the UDC Gymnasium, which is slated to start at 5:00pm.