On Nov. 14, NYU Abu Dhabi hosted its annual Defend the Nest event. Women’s basketball started the night off with a 38-11 victory against Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. Then the men’s team played a closing game against Abu Dhabi Investment Authority with a 41-35 victory that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

Defend the Nest is one of NYUAD’s most popular sporting events; every year students, faculty and community members come for the food, music and competition.

The women’s participation in the event would not have been possible without the Paris-Sorbonne women’s team, who showed up despite having only five players. NYUAD fans started cheering for the Sorbonne women for their sportsmanship and perseverance even when the Falcon’s lead was close to irreversible. The ladies did not quit and kept their energy high throughout the night.

Falcons Coach Jessica Vitiello said, “We’re thankful that Paris-Sorbonne came out … Their continuous support for the league helps us to collectively move forward and develop the program.”

The Falcons were victorious in the end. “Our shooting percentage was really low. It’s something that we’re continuously working on. The girls’ offensive rebounding and smart passing got them ahead. Everyone had fun and that’s what it comes down to,” Vitiello said.

Men’s basketball was up next with a very close game. Hayden Mountcastle, Class of 2019, was one of the key players in the game. “While I don’t think we played our best basketball, I’m really proud of the team for being able to keep our composure until the very end of the game and seal a win. It was fun to play a close game in front of such a big crowd and we really appreciate everyone coming out to support us.”

The game was neck and neck until the very end and the Falcons pulled through in the last quarter to take the victory. As Gregory Goldemberg, another player from the Class of 2020, reflected on the game, “It’s awesome to play in front of our classmates and feel the school spirit. The athletics department really did a great job hosting an amazing event.”