Lions Late Surge Results in Firebirds Defeat

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY – The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team battled until the final whistle but ultimately fell 66-57 to Molloy University on the road in an East Coast Conference clash. Despite a strong start and a dominant rebounding effort, the Firebirds struggled with shooting efficiency in the second half, allowing the Lions to pull away late. With this loss the Firebirds will earn the #6 seed in the upcoming ECC tournament.

UDC opened the game with strong defensive pressure, forcing seven early turnovers and capitalizing on transition opportunities. Jada Bouknight (14 points, 9 rebounds) led the way in the paint, scoring six first-quarter points as UDC took a 16-15 lead into the second quarter.

The Firebirds continued to control the pace, holding Molloy to 32.1% shooting in the first half. Laci Johnson (11 points, 6 assists, 3 steals) facilitated the offense, while Nhaikyia Smith (7 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists) made key plays on both ends. UDC entered halftime with a slim 29-27 advantage, thanks to a 6-0 scoring run in the final two minutes.

The Lions made key adjustments after halftime, tightening up their perimeter defense and attacking inside. Molloy outscored UDC 14-10 in the third quarter, forcing the Firebirds into a five-minute scoring drought midway through the period. The Lions took their first lead since the opening minutes and entered the fourth quarter ahead 41-39. 

UDC fought to keep the game within reach, but missed opportunities and costly turnovers proved too much to overcome. The Firebirds shot just 2-for-11 from three-point range in the second half and allowed Molloy to dominate the offensive glass, leading to 12 second-chance points. A decisive 9-0 run by Molloy in the final three minutes sealed the Firebirds' fate as they fell 66-57.

key performances

• Jada Bouknight: 14 points, 9 rebounds, 1 steal
• Laci Johnson: 11 points, 6 assists, 3 steals
• Nhaikyia Smith: 7 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
• Tania Hill & Kensley Benjamin: 6 points each

Team statistics

• Field Goal Percentage: UDC 28.2% (22-78) | Molloy 36.5% (27-74)
• Three-Point Shooting: UDC 7.7% (2-26) | Molloy 20.0% (5-25)
• Free Throws: UDC 61.1% (11-18) | Molloy 53.8% (7-13)
• Turnovers: UDC 19 | Molloy 20

UDC (10-16, 8-8 ECC) will head to Mercy University on Wednesday for a first round match up.  More details to follow.