Late push falls short as Firebirds edged by Staten Island, 57–56

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team battled to the wire on Saturday afternoon but came up just short in a 57–56 setback against Staten Island inside the EB Henderson Sports Complex. The loss moves the Firebirds to 3–6 (1–2 ECC) on the season.

Kristian Harris and Nhaikyia Smith led the Firebirds with 13 points each. Harris added 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and a block, while Smith chipped in 4 assists and a pair of made threes. Dashani Coleman finished with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Calista Gaymon contributed 7 points and 2 steals while going 3-for-4 at the free-throw line. Off the bench, Maya Johnson provided a spark with 8 points, 3 assists, 3 steals.

After trailing 32–29 at halftime, the Firebirds stormed out with their best quarter of the afternoon, outscoring Staten Island 20–16 in the third to take a narrow lead into the final frame. The Dolphins responded with a tight defensive stretch in the fourth, holding UDC to just 7 points in the period.

Despite several late opportunities, UDC could not convert in the final seconds as Staten Island escaped with the one-point win. Staten Island held a 50–29 rebounding advantage, which played a decisive role in the final outcome.

Up next, the Firebirds head to Chestnut Hill next Thursday for a non-conference matchup at noon.