Firebirds Take Down Regionally Ranked Tigers

WASHINGTON, DC- the University of the District of Columbia's women's basketball team snapped their five game losing streak, after defeating regionally ranked Holy Family University 69-57, Wednesday night at the E.B Henderson Sports Complex. The Firebirds move to 12-5 on the season and remain undefeated at home with an 8-0 record while the Tigers slip to 14-4 on the year.

Destiny Ryles came off the bench to lead all scorers with 19 points, shooting 50% from the field. Latavia Jackson posted 11 points, Tori Williams (10), and Rookie Kristian Harris made her first collegiate start scoring eight points. Aiyana Ellis pulled a team-high nine rebounds and made two blocks.

Harris was responsible for the Firebirds first six points but the Tigers found themselves on top 14-9 with 6:06 to go in the opening quarter. UDC went on a 7-1 run after a jumshot from Williams and a layup and two free throws by Ryles closed the quarter tied at 17.  

UDC's defensive efforts in the second quarter held the visitors to a 13.3 field goal % and 0% from behind the arc,  allowing them to open an eight point lead going into half-time. 

HFU cameback to outscore the Firebirds 19-15 in the third but UDC was able to hold on to a four point lead heading into the final stretch. 

The home team closed out the game with their best offensive quarter shooting 50% from the field and outscoring their competitiors 22-14. Laci Johnson knocked down two big treys and Ryles went 4-5 from the field scoring nine points to put the game out of reach and seal the deal.

The Firebirds shot 42.2% from the field while holding the Tigers to 30.6%. Holy Family had the slight advantage in rebounds (44-41) and were able to capitalize with more second chance points (10-7). UDC dominated in the paint, scoring 34 points compared to the visitors 20.

UDC (12-5, 4-1 ECC) conclude their non conference schedule for the season and will head to N.Y. this Saturday to take on the College of Staten Island. Tip-off is set for 3:00pm.