Firebirds’ Second-Half Push Falls Short in 89–78 Loss to Goldey-Beacom

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team closed out Day 2 of the ECC/CACC Conference Challenge on Saturday afternoon, falling 89–78 to Goldey-Beacom despite a strong first half and a career performance from Michael Harrell.

UDC opened the game with energy, shooting 60 percent in the first half and taking a 47–37 lead into the break. Harrell powered the early momentum, scoring efficiently at all three levels while anchoring the boards.

But Goldey-Beacom surged in the second half, outscoring the Firebirds 52–31 and capitalizing on transition opportunities and defensive pressure. Emarquis Jones led the Lightning with 23 points, while Tre Powell added 17.

Michael Harrell delivered a standout performance for UDC, finishing with a game-high 22 points and 11 rebounds, shooting 9-of-13 from the field. Harrell posted his second straight double-figure game of the weekend and controlled the pace for the Firebirds.

Ty Williams added a spark off the bench with 16 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including a 5-of-8 effort at the free throw line. David Pope contributed 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting with four rebounds, while Oliver Spence added 9 points, 8 rebounds, and a team-high five blocks in an efficient 19 minutes

As a team, UDC shot a strong 52.6 percent from the field, but Goldey-Beacom's 32 made field goals—including eight three-pointers—proved difficult to overcome. The Firebirds recorded 22 assists on 30 made baskets, showcasing unselfish ball movement, but 21 turnovers shifted momentum at key moments.

UDC returns to the E.B. Henderson Sports Complex on November 22 as they host Virginia State.