BUFFALO, N.Y. — D'Youville (7-7, 4-2 ECC) defeated Dist. Columbia (5-10, 1-4 ECC), 68-60, at the Saints Center Gym. D'Youville overcame an early deficit, closing with a decisive 20-12 run in the fourth quarter. The home team hit 13 three-pointers and recorded 22 assists, capitalizing on UDC's 18 turnovers to secure the victory.

D'Youville opened the game with a quick start as Alyssa Neumann (Silverdale, Wash. / Central Kitsap) scored on a jumper assisted by Molly O'Toole (Rochester, N.Y. / Aquinas Institute) at 9:40. Despite early momentum, D'Youville faced challenges as the Firebirds capitalized on points in the paint and took control midway through the quarter. O'Toole kept D'Youville competitive with a three-pointer at 6:33, narrowing the margin. However, UDC's scoring run extended their lead before the end of the first quarter. The quarter concluded with D'Youville trailing 22–13.

D'Youville rallied in the second quarter with a late surge, marked by O'Toole's pivotal 3-pointer at 1:16, reducing the deficit significantly. Ava Pearson (Colonie, N.Y. / Colonie) contributed with a crucial 3-pointer at 1:48, aiding the team's offensive push. Despite trailing early, D'Youville outscored the Firebirds 18–16 in the quarter, entering the halftime break with a scoreline of 38–31 in favor of the visitors.

D'Youville seized momentum in the third quarter with a key 3-pointer by Pearson at 7:38, narrowing the gap to two points. O'Toole's defensive presence and crucial assist helped maintain pace, as D'Youville tied the game at 48 with her own 3-pointer at 1:01. The quarter concluded with a score of 48–48, setting the stage for a tense final quarter.

D'Youville gained control in the final quarter, fueled by Neumann's early scoring surge, which included back-to-back layups, the second assisted by O'Toole. Neumann continued to be a pivotal figure, contributing a total of 11 rebounds and several key plays, including a fastbreak layup by Megan Fedor (Elmira, N.Y. / Elmira) following a steal. This offensive push was complemented by a strong defensive effort, resulting in 11 rebounds and multiple steals, which helped D'Youville extend their lead.

A critical sequence occurred midway through the quarter when D'Youville's bench contributed significantly, with Pearson hitting a 3-pointer off an assist from Samantha Ruhlman (Warren, Pa. / Warren Area). Despite a brief challenge from the Firebirds, D'Youville maintained their advantage and closed out the game with Trinity Small (West Chester Township, Ohio / Purcell Marian) converting two free throws in the final seconds. The game ended with D'Youville securing a 68–60 victory.

O'Toole posted a double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds while adding seven assists. Pearson contributed 14 points, connecting on four 3-pointers. Neumann scored 15 points and dished out three assists. Xanthippi Karatasiou (Katerini, Greece / Kontariotissa) tallied nine points, making three shots from beyond the arc.

In their next game, D'Youville will face Molloy University on Friday, Jan. 16. The game will tip off at 5 p.m. in Rockville Centre, New York.