UDC Men’s Basketball Falls in Homecoming Doubleheader Finale

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team battled through a high-tempo Homecoming contest on Saturday afternoon but fell to visiting Virginia State University, 82–64, at the E.B. Henderson Sports Complex. The Firebirds move to 0–3 on the season following the non-conference setback.

Virginia State opened the game with a high-powered offensive rhythm, taking a 38–27 lead into halftime. The Firebirds responded with a more aggressive second half, scoring 37 points and continuing to attack the paint, but the Trojans sustained their efficiency to secure the win.

Rejuan Gray led UDC with 15 points, knocking down two three-pointers and going 3-of-4 from the free-throw line. Freshman Oliver Spence delivered one of the strongest performances off the bench, finishing with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and a block in 23 minutes. Ty Williams added 10 points, while David Pope chipped in another 10 on 4-of-7 shooting. 

UDC shot 32.8% from the field and 28.6% from long range, while Virginia State countered with a sharp 52.8% shooting performance, including 46.7% from beyond the arc. The Firebirds grabbed 33 total rebounds and forced 16 Trojan turnovers, but VSU's balanced scoring saw five players contribute eight or more points.

The Firebirds hit the road for a midweek matchup, traveling to Virginia Union on Wednesday.