Emmie Streams Rises to Starting Role for UMaine Women’s Basketball

Emmie Streams, a junior guard for the University of Maine women’s basketball team, has stepped into a starting role after an impressive journey from walk-on to key player. The former Bangor High School standout made her first start during a decisive 69-46 victory over St. Francis in the Turkey Tip-Off Tournament on March 1, 2024. She followed this performance with another start in a close 54-45 win against Boston University.

Initially joining the team as a walk-on, Streams had limited playing time, appearing in just 35 games over her first two seasons, mostly coming off the bench. Her dedication and work ethic caught the attention of the coaching staff, earning her a scholarship after demonstrating her value as a practice player. Streams played in 22 games last season, averaging 6.6 minutes per game, and has notably increased her playing time this season.

Her recent performances have seen her average 20.4 minutes over the last five games, including a career-high 32 minutes during a challenging match against the University of Illinois Chicago. Despite only scoring a total of 10 points this season, her contributions extend beyond scoring.

“Emmie does the little things,” stated UMaine head coach Amy Vachon. “She’s not out trying to score. She is in there to facilitate offense and really defend.” In her last five games, Streams has recorded nine rebounds, seven assists, and five steals, showcasing her all-around game.

After the win over Boston University, senior forward Adrianna Smith praised Streams, calling her the “heart of the team.” Smith emphasized the importance of Streams’ hard work and selflessness, stating, “Whatever we get from her, offensively, is just extra.”

Streams has embraced her role, focusing on facilitating plays and playing strong defense. “Coming in, you never know if you’re going to play at the Division I level,” she explained. “So I knew I had to come in and work hard every day and if I got the opportunity, I had to make the most of it.” Her defensive skills are a point of pride, as she recognizes their importance to the team’s success.

The impact of Streams’ growth is evident, as it allows starting point guard Asta Blauenfeldt to play off the ball more frequently. Vachon noted, “Streams gives us the opportunity to play Asta off the ball so she can get some looks she wasn’t getting as a point guard.”

Her former coach at Bangor High School, Jay Kemble, expressed pride in Streams’ determination and work ethic. Known for her commitment to improvement, Kemble recalled her dedication to practice, often working independently to enhance her skills. “She was always doing something to make her better at her craft,” he said.

As the Black Bears head into their next challenge against the University of Pennsylvania on March 7, 2024, with a record of 3-5, Streams’ emergence as a starter could provide a significant boost for the team. They will face the Quakers, who currently hold a record of 5-3, before returning home to play against Rhode Island on March 10, 2024.

With her recent performances and unwavering commitment, Emmie Streams is proving to be an invaluable asset for the University of Maine women’s basketball team as they navigate this season.