Adrianna Smith recorded a double-double in her first game back since missing all of last season with a knee injury, as the University of Maine narrowly fell 63-62 to Saint Joseph’s University in their season opener on Friday in Orono.

Smith, the 2022-23 America East Player of the Year, finished with an impressive 25 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. Despite Maine trailing 58-46 with just over four minutes left, the Black Bears mounted a late rally. Smith sparked the comeback with a 3-pointer, followed by a layup that brought the team within three points with 24 seconds remaining.

Saint Joseph’s managed to extend their lead with two foul shots from Rhian Stokes, pushing the Hawks ahead by five. However, Smith responded quickly with another layup. Stokes then made one of two free throws with 16 seconds left. In a dramatic finish, Asta Blauenfeldt sank a game-winning 3-pointer as time expired for Maine.

Blauenfeldt contributed 16 points for the Black Bears, while Sarah Talon of Windham added 10 points. Cheverus graduate Maddie Fitzpatrick, the 2024 Miss Maine Basketball winner, who also missed her freshman season due to injury, played 16 minutes but was scoreless for Maine.

For Saint Joseph’s, Gabby Casey led the way with 19 points and nine rebounds in the Hawks’ 1-1 start. Faith Stinon added 16 points, while both Rhian Stokes and Jill Jekot contributed 11 points each.
https://www.centralmaine.com/2025/11/07/maine-womens-basketball-falls-in-season-opener-to-st-josephs/