Firebirds Hold Off Mercy for 63–61 Conference Home Victory

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team earned a hard-fought 63–61 victory over Mercy University on Wednesday night at the UDC Sports Complex, securing an important East Coast Conference home win and splitting the season series between the two programs.

UDC (2-12, 1-5 ECC) built a strong foundation in the first half, taking a 36–26 lead into halftime, before withstanding a late push from the Mavericks. Mercy trimmed the deficit in the second half, but the Firebirds made timely stops and executed down the stretch to seal the victory.

Freshman Oliver Spence, recorded his first collegiate double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Spence was efficient in the paint, shooting 8-of-15 from the field, and anchored the Firebirds on the glass throughout the contest.

Michael Harrell finished in double figures with 13 points, knocking down two three-pointers, while Arthur Roache also reached double digits, contributing 11 points and seven rebounds off the bench. Kevon Corley added eight points and provided defensive energy late. Karris Scott knocked down the game-winning basket in the closing seconds to seal the victory.

The Firebirds finished with 43 rebounds, including 17 offensive boards, creating multiple second-chance opportunities. Defensively, UDC recorded nine steals and eight blocks, disrupting Mercy's rhythm throughout the night.

The Firebirds return to the road on Saturday, traveling to St. Thomas Aquinas for another East Coast Conference matchup.