WASHINGTON, D.C. - The University of the District of Columbia's women's basketball team fought their way back from a 15-point halftime deficit to defeat the College of Staten Island, 70-67, and advance to Round 2 of the ECC Championship. The Firebirds improve to 20-9 on the season and will face off against the top-seeded Daemen University on Saturday, at noon in Amherst, N.Y.

Destiny Ryles led all scorers with 23 points shooting 45% from the field, Latavia Jackson had 17 points while grabbing a game-high six steals, Shanell Haskins posted 14 points and Tori Williams was just shy of a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.

CSI bested the Firebirds in shot percentage (46.8%-37.3%) and rebounds (38-35) but the difference maker was the Firebirds' defense. They forced 29 Dolphin turnovers, converting 34 points off those turnovers.

The Firebirds will compete in the ECC semifinal for the first time since the 2015-16 season.