Firebirds Fall on the Road to Mercy, 73–54

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. — The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team battled through a tough conference matchup Saturday afternoon, but fell 73–54 to Mercy College in East Coast Conference play.

Aiyana Ellis powered UDC with 13 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and three blocks. Dashani Coleman added a team-high and career-high 17 points to go along with five rebounds and four steals, marking her sixth double-figure scoring performance on the season. Nhaikyia Smith also finished with 11 points, five assists, three rebounds, and two steals in a full 38 minutes of action.

UDC stayed within one after the opening quarter (15–14), but a 20–8 Mercy advantage in the second frame created the separation that carried through the remainder of the contest. The Mavericks shot 45.6% from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers on the afternoon.

Grace Lesko led Mercy with 24 points and eight rebounds, while Amani Abuhatab added 15 points.

The Firebirds return home next Saturday hosting the College of Staten Islnd at the EB Henderson Sports Complex. Tip-off is set for 1:00 p.m.