Firebirds Outlast Roberts Wesleyan in 97-91 Shootout Victory

Rochester, NY – The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team put together a high-scoring and resilient performance to earn a 97-91 victory over Roberts Wesleyan on the road Saturday evening. The Firebirds shot over 55% from the field, controlled the rebounding battle, and held off a late push from the Redhawks to secure their third ECC win of the season. Sophomore guard Charles Holley Jr led the Firebirds with a game and career-high 27 points shooting 66.7% from beyond the arc, while going a perfect 9-9 at the charity stripe.

UDC opened the game aggressively, getting key early contributions from Holley Jr. and Curtis. The Firebirds shot 50% from the field (16-32) and 42.9% from three (3-7) in the first half while also winning the rebounding battle. However, Roberts Wesleyan kept pace with strong perimeter play, and the Firebirds led by just one point at halftime, 41-40.

The Firebirds came out of the break with increased defensive intensity and improved ball movement. They knocked down six three-pointers in the second half and attacked the rim consistently, getting to the free-throw line 28 times in the game. UDC also dominated the glass with 43 rebounds, limiting Roberts Wesleyan's second-chance opportunities. The Firebirds outscored the Redhawks 56-51 in the second half, securing the win.

Key performances

• Charles Holley Jr.: 27 points (6-9 3PT), 9-9 FT, 2 rebounds
• Tevin Curtis: 17 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds
• Rejuan Gray: 16 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists
• Mikhai Arnold: 11 points, 3 assists 

Team Statistics

• Field Goal Percentage: UDC 55.0% (33-60) | Roberts Wesleyan 45.2% (33-73)
• Three-Point Shooting: UDC 47.4% (9-19) | Roberts Wesleyan 23.5% (8-34)
• Free Throw Percentage: UDC 78.6% (22-28) | Roberts Wesleyan 63.0% (17-27)
• Rebounds: UDC 43 | Roberts Wesleyan 27
• Assists: UDC 20 | Roberts Wesleyan 18
• Turnovers: UDC 24 | Roberts Wesleyan 13

UDC (5-18, 3-11 ECC) is back in action on Wednesday for their final home game of the season. They welcome Queens College to the E.B Henderson Sports Complex for a 7:45pm tip-off time.