SCOUTING REPORT: VCU women’s basketball vs. Maine

Illustration by Zoë Luis.
VCU women’s basketball will face the University of Maine for a non-conference matchup at the Siegel Center on Nov. 14 at 7 p.m.
The CT sports staff chose their notable players for the matchup.
VCU
Kyler Gilliam, Staff Writer
Patricia Augustine — The first-year guard had an impressive debut this year, producing on both ends of the court. Augustine racked up four steals in VCU’s victory against the University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Nov. 5. She scored eight points, drained a three-pointer and grabbed five rebounds, making her presence felt on the boards. The Canadian represented her country’s Under 18 team in the Women’s Americas Championship, averaging seven points and four rebounds. Before enrolling at VCU, she was awarded the Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association Championship game MVP award, scoring 25 points and nine rebounds. At 5-foot-10-inches, Augustine brings a defensive advantage and makes a fun north of the border duo with fellow Canadian guard Mary-Anna Asare.
Saanvi Vootla, Contributing Writer
Mary-Anna Asare — The fourth-year guard has emerged as one of the Atlantic 10’s top two-way threats, capping a breakout 2024-2025 season with an All-A-10 Second Team and All-Academic Team honors. Asare is a fierce competitor and versatile playmaker who scored 16 points per game last year. Her ability to create her own shot and stretch defenses makes her a threat to opponents. She averages 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game, showcasing her all-around impact on both ends of the court. Her 37 point outburst against Duquesne University represents her ability to take over games. Asare is known for her leadership on the court and has steadily elevated her play. As a former Team Canada U19 FIBA World Cup representative, she combines international experience with dedication, making her a vital player on the Rams to watch out for.
Maine
Jenny Allen, Staff Writer
Adrianna Smith — The Black Bears’ 6-foot redshirt fourth-year forward will be a key threat to the Rams. Despite Smith missing the 2024-2025 season due to an injury, she has already reached over 1,000 career points, according to Maine Athletics. Her size advantage and knack for second-chance points will be a major threat to VCU. Smith is entering this season ready to make up for her missed time, which will force the Rams to step up their game. Smith has accumulated multiple awards, including America East Player of the Year, America East First Team All-Conference in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 and America East All-Academic Team in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, according to Maine Athletics. Her recognition highlights her skills and will require the Rams to plan around her.
Hayden Braun, Contributing Writer
Asta Blauenfeldt — The Black Bears’ fourth-year 5-foot-6-inch guard enters this matchup against the Rams as one of the most reliable players on the team. She was amazing in Maine’s season opener against Saint Joseph’s, scoring 16 points while shooting 71% from the field and hitting 4-of-5 from three, according to ESPN. She also had two rebounds, two assists and a steal. Her ability to space the floor and score in constant rhythm makes her an ever present danger from beyond the arc. Despite her size being seen as a disadvantage, she plays with confidence and pace while having good shot selection under pressure.