Late Second Half Rally Propels Firebirds to 85-81 Victory over Wildcats in Season Opener

Wilmington, DE - The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team opened their 2024-2025 season with a thrilling 85-81 victory over Wilmington University on Friday evening. After trailing at halftime, the Firebirds surged back in the second half to claim a hard-fought win. This also marks the Firebirds first season opener victory since the 2011-12 season, where they went on to qualify for the NCAA tornament ending with a 22-6 record.

Wilmington took control early, leading 45-33 at halftime. However, UDC mounted a strong comeback in the second half, outscoring Wilmington 52-36 to secure the victory.

Key contributions came from several UDC players, including Elijah Crawford and Gene Anderson, who led the team in scoring with 17 points each. Tevin Curtis and Khyrie Staten also chipped in with 13 and 11 points, respectively, while UDC shot an impressive 50% from the field as a team.

Key Performances

• Elijah Crawford: 17 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals
• Gene Anderson: 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5-6 free throws
• Tevin Curtis: 13 points, 6 rebounds
• Khyrie Staten: 11 points, 5 rebounds, 4 steals
• Greg Williams: 11 points, 4 rebounds
• Vernon Simmons: 7 points, 3 rebounds off the bench

Team Statistics

• Field Goals: UDC 32-64 (50.0%), Wilmington 28-62 (45.2%)
• Three-Point Shooting: UDC 2-12 (16.7%), Wilmington 16-32 (50.0%)
• Free Throws: UDC 19-23 (82.6%), Wilmington 9-15 (60.0%)
• Rebounds: Both teams with 35
• Turnovers: UDC 10, Wilmington 16

Up next, UDC (1-0) will take on Goldey-Beacom College tomorrow at 5:00pm to wrap up the ECC/CACC Tip-off.