Firebirds Fall to Mercy in Conference Home Matchup

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team dropped a 75–50 decision to Mercy University on Wednesday evening at the UDC Sports Complex in East Coast Conference action. With the result, the Mavericks completed the season series sweep over the Firebirds.

UDC (5-11, 1-5 ECC) stayed within striking distance early, trailing 17–15 after the first quarter, before Mercy extended its lead in the second period to take a 35–25 advantage at halftime. The Mavericks continued to build momentum in the second half, outscoring the Firebirds 40–25 over the final two quarters to secure the win.

Aiyana Ellis led the Firebirds with 15 points and nine rebounds, while adding two blocks and a steal in a strong two-way performance. Nhaikyia Smith followed with 11 points, shooting a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line, while also contributing eight rebounds and three assists.

Kristian Harris added eight points, and Shaima James Lewis provided a spark off the bench with eight points on 3-of-6 shooting. UDC finished with 34 total rebounds, including 13 offensive boards, creating second-chance opportunities throughout the contest.

Defensively, the Firebirds recorded six steals and three blocks, while forcing 15 Mercy turnovers. UDC converted 13-of-16 free throws, shooting 81.3 percent from the line.

Mercy shot 50.0 percent from the field and connected on 11 three-pointers, using balanced scoring and ball movement to pull away in the second half.

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