Strong Second Half Propels UDC Past Staten Island

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Dist. of Columbia (4-17, 3-10 ECC) secured a narrow 81-77 victory over Staten Island (17-8, 8-5 ECC) on Saturday at the Sports & Recreation Center. The Firebirds' strong performance in the paint contributed to their success, outscoring the Dolphins 42-32 in that area. With this win the Firebirds Split the season series with the Dolphins.

The game began with Rejuan Gray scoring the opening points for the Firebirds, but the Dolphins quickly responded with a 3-pointer by JJ Chestnut. Staten Island maintained a slight edge through the first half, with Chestnut contributing significantly, including a layup and a free throw at the 2:06 mark that extended their lead to seven points. Dist. Columbia's Darnell Dantzler kept the visitors within reach with a jumper, bringing the score to 31-36. However, Staten Island's Andrew Benedict hit a 3-pointer with 1:07 remaining, helping the home team secure a 41-33 lead by the end of the first half.

In a tightly contested second half, Staten Island initially held a narrow lead, but UDC surged ahead with a strong offensive push. Oliver Spence scored multiple key baskets, including a layup at 17:30 that gave UDC a one-point advantage. Staten Island managed to tie the game at 75 with just 38 seconds remaining after a layup by Chestnut. However, UDC's Arthur Roache sank two crucial free throws with two seconds left, securing a 79-77 lead. A last-second steal and layup by David Pope sealed UDC's 81-77 victory.

Oliver Spence led the scoring effort with 24 points, converting 10 of his 15 field goal attempts, while also contributing three blocks. Gray added 21 points and was perfect from the free-throw line, making all six of his attempts. Michael Harrell scored 15 points, hitting two 3-pointers and collecting seven rebounds. Roache recorded three steals and scored nine points, securing five total rebounds.

Looking ahead, the University of the District of Columbia basketball team will head to Roberts Wesleyan on Wednesday, Feb. 18. The game will tip off at 8 p.m.