Firebirds Fend Off Mavericks to Remain Undefeated

WASHINGTON, DC- the University of the District of Columbia's women's basketball team improved to 10-0 on the season after defeating Mercy University 82-68, in a conference showdown at the E.B Henderson Sports Complex. The Firebirds improve to 4-0 in the conference while the Mavericks slip to 7-3, 1-2 ECC. 

Five Firebirds scored in the double-figures, with Tori Williams leading the way with a game-high 25 points and eight rebounds. Latavia Jackson went 6-10 from the field scoring 15 points and seven rebounds and Nia Ford and Laci Johnson both scored 12 points. Destiny Ryles had 10 points, seven assists and six rebounds. 

The Mavericks bested the Firebirds in the first quarter opening a 21-15 lead. UDC responded with a huge second quarter, holding the visiting offense to just eight points while scoring 20, to take a six point lead into half-time.

UDC went on to have their best scoring quarter in the third, outscoring Mercy 23-20. The Firebirds were able to hold off the Mavericks in the fourth to secure their 10th victory of the season.

Mercy was led by Katie Wall who scored 22 points and eight rebounds, and Jaclyn Stanavich who posted a double-double off of 18 points and 11 rebounds. 

The Firebirds shot 46.9% from the field, 37.5% from deep and 70.6% from the foul line. The Mavericks shot 34.8% from the field, 22.2% from behind the arc and 84.2% from the charity stripe. UDC outrebounded Mercy 44-40 and dominated with points in the paint (46-28).

Up next, UDC (10-0, 4-0 ECC) will host Virginia Union University next Tuesday at 5:30 pm.