VEZAIE, Maine (Interstat) — The Maine women’s basketball team used a dominant third-quarter surge to secure its first victory of the season, defeating Stonehill 79-53 in a non-conference matchup Monday night at Cross Insurance Center.

The Black Bears, who improved to 1-3, broke open a competitive game by outscoring the Skyhawks 27-11 in the third period. After taking a 39-22 lead into halftime, Maine’s offense exploded, building a commanding advantage that Stonehill could not overcome.

Adrianna Smith led all scorers with 26 points for Maine, adding four assists in just 26 minutes of action. She was instrumental in the Black Bears’ efficient offensive performance, which saw the team post an offensive rating of 106.6 points per 100 possessions. Asta Blauenfeldt provided a significant boost with 14 points and four assists, while Lizzy Gruber controlled the paint with 13 points and two blocks.

Stonehill, which fell to 3-2, was led by Brooke Paquette’s 13 points. Bella Mallory added 12 points for the Skyhawks, but the team struggled with offensive consistency, managing an offensive rating of just 68.7.

The game was decided by Maine’s overwhelming advantages in several key statistical categories. The Black Bears forced 22 Stonehill turnovers, converting them into 21 points, while committing only 13 turnovers themselves. Maine also dominated the glass with 15 offensive rebounds leading to numerous second-chance opportunities, and their defense was stifling, recording 17 steals and six blocks compared to Stonehill’s seven steals and two blocks.

Maine also shared the ball effectively, dishing out 17 assists on 32 made field goals. Stonehill managed just seven assists on 20 baskets.

After a slow start from both teams, Maine began to pull away in the second quarter, closing the first half on a strong run to establish a 17-point lead. The third-quarter blitz then put the game out of reach, as the Black Bears’ defense smothered the Skyhawks and their offense executed with precision.

The announced attendance was 922.

Stonehill will look to rebound on the road Saturday when it hosts Bryant. Maine returns to action Sunday with a road game against Brown.