Roache Leads UDC with 22 Points Against Molloy

WASHINGTON, DC — The University of the District of Columbia (3-17, 2-10) fell to Molloy University (7-14, 7-4) with a final score of 82-76 on Wednesday night at UDC. The Firebirds had a strong presence in the paint, scoring 44 points, but the Lions pulled away with a 48-point second half.

The game began with the Firebirds establishing an early lead, fueled by Rejuan Gray's dunk from Darnell Dantzler's assist at 18:22. Oliver Spence contributed significantly, scoring a layup and free throw to push the lead to 8-4 by 16:30. The Lions kept pace, tying the game at 12 with a layup by Dylan Kopp at 12:34. However, UDC regained momentum, highlighted by Chris Smith's jumper at 7:33, extending the lead to 23-12. The half concluded with a narrow 38-34 lead for the Firebirds, despite a late 3-pointer from Molloy's Manu Alford at 1:06.

Dylan Kopp opened the second half with a 3-pointer for the Lions, bringing the visitors within one point of UDC at 38-37. The Lions then took control with a 6-0 run, highlighted by Kopp's three consecutive free throws at 18:50, pushing the score to 40-38. UDC briefly regained the lead with a 3-pointer from Dantzler at 18:32, but the Lions responded with a quick layup from Jared Weakly. Later, a layup by Bryce Merchant at 1:13 extended the Lions' advantage to five points. Despite a late layup by Arthur Roache, who achieved a season-high of 22 total points, the Lions maintained the lead and secured an 82-76 victory.

Roache led the scoring with 22 points, converting all six of his free throw attempts. This marked the first time this season he reached 22 total points. Michael Harrell dominated the boards, collecting 14 rebounds and adding two assists. Smith contributed 15 points and showed defensive strength with three blocks. David Pope added five points and registered two blocks.

In their next game, the Firebirds will face Staten Island on Saturday, Feb. 14.