Firebirds battle but fall to Chestnut Hill in road matchup

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team fought through four quarters but came up short in a 61–45 non conference setback at Chestnut Hill College on Thursday afternoon.

UDC was led by Calista Gaymon who provided a spark off the bench, finishing with a team-high 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting, adding six rebounds in the effort. Aiyana Ellis, also turned in a srong performance with 14 points and eight rebounds while playing all 40 minutes. 

After a slow first quarter, the Firebirds found rhythm in the second, but trailed the Griffins by 16 going into the half. UDC continued to compete in the second half, matching Chestnut Hill with 26 points but the deficit proved too much to overcome. 

UDC finished the game with 36 rebounds and forced 23 turnovers, highlighted by Ellis' presence in the paint with three blocks and two steals. Gaymon and Maya Johnson combined for six steals as the Firebirds worked to generate transition opportunities.

The Firebirds will wrap up their 2025 slate on Sunday when they return to action at home with a nonconference matchup against Assumption University. The game is slated to begin at 1:00 p.m.