Firebirds Dealt Heartbreaking Loss at Queens

WASHINGTON, DC- The University of the District of Columbia's women's basketball team fell to Queens College 47-48, Saturday afternoon at the Fitzgerald Gymnasium. The Firebirds fell to 8-6 in the league but still remains fourth in the standings, while the Knights improved to 5-8, to move up to sixth. 

Latavia Jackson led the Firebirds with 12 points shooting over 50% from the field. Destiny Ryles came off the bench to add 11, and was the only other scorer in the double digits for UDC. Tori Williams grabbed a game high 11 rebounds and Aiyana Ellis pulled eight rebounds while making a game-high three steals. 

The Firebirds were held scoreless for over five minutes, which resulted in a 6-12 score in favor of the Knights going into the second quarter. 

UDC then went on an 11-3 run in the second quarter that would give them the one point lead as they headed into the locker rooms. 

The Firebirds had their best offensive quarter in the third but the Knights held on to keep the game within reach. The home team had their best quarter in the fourth scoring 23 points compared to UDC's 12 and would notch a last second jumper that saw them walk away victorious. 

UDC shot at just 30.6% from the field while the Knights shot at 39.2%. Queens also held the edge on rebounds (43-36) and tied the Firebirds for points in the paint (30-30). The visiting Firebirds forced more turnovers (23-14) and was able to convert more points off turnovers (21-6). 

Despite their loss the Firebirds are guaranteed a spot in the post season, but will have to win their next two games in order to secure a hosting spot. 

Next Up, UDC (13-12, 8-6 ECC) will be at home for their last two games of the regular season. They will host the College of Staten Island next Saturday at the E.B Henderson Sports Complex and will also celebrate their senior Halia Ellis. Tip-off is set for 3:00 PM.