Firebirds Fall to No. 4 Daemen

Washington, D.C. — The University of the District of Columbia men's basketball team dropped an 88–67 decision to No. 4 Daemen on Friday night in East Coast Conference action. The loss also saw the Wildcats complete a season series sweep over the Firebirds.

Daemen set the tone early, building a 47–24 halftime advantage behind efficient shooting and balanced scoring. UDC showed fight in the second half, outscoring the visitors 43–41, but was unable to overcome the early deficit.

Arthur Roache led the Firebirds with a season-high 18 points, shooting 8-of-14 from the field, and pulled down 12 rebounds to record his first double-double in a Firebirds uniform. Michael Harrell added nine points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks, while Oliver Spence chipped in nine points and four rebounds.

UDC finished with 40 rebounds and shot 77.8 percent from the free-throw line, continuing to compete on the glass against one of the nation's top-ranked teams.

Daemen, ranked fourth nationally, was led by Benjamin Bill's 16 points and Phil Nwugwo's 15, as the Wildcats shot 49.3 percent from the field and used their depth to control the tempo.

The Firebirds will look to bounce back as they continue conference play on Sunday, hosting D'Youville at home.