Firebirds Edged by Lions 79-80 in HBCU Classic; Colon on Fire Knocks down Six Three's

LINCOLN, PA- The University of the District of Columbia's men's basketball team was edged out by Lincoln (Pa.) in day one of the inaugural HBCU Gameday Classic. Despite leading the entire way, the Firebirds were plagued by a few turnovers resulting in a heartbreaking 79-80 defeat, falling to 2-3 on the season.

Juanye Colon led all scorers with a season high 26 points, knocking down 6-10 three pointers. Michael Aiken came off the bench to add 21 points going 7-10 from the field and Jahmir Marable-Williams rounded out double-figure scoring for the Firebirds adding 10 points, five rebounds and three assists. Micah Campbell flirted with a double-double, posting eight points and 8 rebounds while also making a steal and a block. 

UDC took control of the game early, leaving the hosts to play catch up the entire way. They shot at 56.5% from the field in the first half while holding Lincoln to 48.1%. Aiken, Colon and Campbell led the offensive effort posting 11, 9 and 8 points, with Colon warming up from behind the arc going 2-2. The Firebirds also held it down on the defense, outrebounding the Lions 14-11 to take the 42-38 lead into the half.

UDC was unable to shake Lincoln coming off the break as they fought to close every lead, upping their shot percentage to 65.5%. Colon didn't make it easy for them as he scored 17 of his 26 points, and was on fire behind the arc. The lions took their first lead of the game with 1:37, remaining but it was short lived as Aiken was fouled taking a three, and went 2-3 at the charity stripe to even the game 79-79. 

The last 50 seconds of the game was hectic, as Lincoln was unable to finish two jumpers resulting in the defensive rebound by the Firebirds, who then turned the ball over on posession. The host school hustled to get the ball down the court and Ethan Garita was then fouled on his way to the basket with 0 seconds left on the clock, which sent him to the free throw line. He was able to hit 1-2, which secured the one point victory for Lincoln.

Next Up, UDC (2-3, 0-0 ECC) will conclude the HBCU GameDay Classic taking on Bluefield State, Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM.