Adrianna Smith made an impressive return to the court in her first game since missing the entire last season due to a knee injury. The 2022-23 America East Player of the Year showcased her talent during the University of Maine’s season-opening 63-62 loss to Saint Joseph’s University on Friday in Orono.
Smith finished the game with an outstanding double-double, recording 25 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. Despite Maine trailing 58-46 with just over four minutes left, Smith sparked a dramatic comeback. She initiated the rally with a three-pointer and later nailed a crucial layup with 24 seconds remaining, narrowing the Hawks’ lead to three.
Saint Joseph’s responded with two foul shots by Rhian Stokes, pushing their lead back to five. However, Smith answered again with another layup. Stokes added one of two free throws with 16 seconds left, but Asta Blauenfeldt sealed the game for the Black Bears with a buzzer-beating three-pointer as time expired.
Blauenfeldt contributed 16 points for Maine, while Sarah Talon of Windham added 10. Cheverus graduate Maddie Fitzpatrick, the 2024 Miss Maine Basketball winner who missed her freshman season due to injury, played 16 minutes but was held scoreless.
On the Saint Joseph’s side, Gabby Casey led with 19 points and nine rebounds. Faith Stinon scored 16 points, while both Rhian Stokes and Jill Jekot chipped in with 11 points each. The Hawks improved their record to 1-1 with the narrow victory.
https://www.pressherald.com/2025/11/07/maine-womens-basketball-falls-in-season-opener-to-st-josephs/