Meet the Newcomers: Q&A with Makiah Asidanya
August 21, 2026 | Women's Basketball
#21 Makiah Asidanya
Year: Senior
Height: 5-7
Position: Guard
Hometown: Pittsburg, Calif.
Previous School: UNCG
High School: Salesian College Preparatory
Major: Psychology
Makiah Asidanya is a senior transfer from UNC Greensboro. Last year, she averaged career-highs of 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists for the Spartans. She was also a two-time SoCon Player of the Week and was named to the conference's all-academic team. Asidanya is from Northern California where she led Salesian College Preparatory to a CIF-North Coast Section Open Division championship as a senior in 2023.
How did you get started playing basketball?
I got started playing basketball through being involved in sports as a kid. I played softball, basketball, and did dance. I did that up until middle school and just kind of stuck with basketball and that's what brought me here.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level?
I knew that I wanted to pursue basketball when I first started AAU. I was surrounded by a bunch of talented players and I saw how far it could take me. So, about sixth grade was when I really knew I could use it to help further my education, but also just become a great player.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your basketball career?
My biggest inspiration has been my family. They sacrificed so much and really did everything they could to get me here today. I also have siblings who look up to me, and I have a great village at home - trainers, uncles, aunties, cousins, grandparents - so, honestly all of them are my biggest inspiration and what keeps me going every day.
How would you describe your playing style to fans who have never seen you play before?
I don't want to say nonchalant, but I kind of just do whatever presents itself at the moment. I like to shoot a lot and sometimes I like to get downhill, so I would just say I play freely.
Why did you choose UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine because I knew I would get pushed every single day, not only by the coaches and their determination, but by the players and the people I surround myself with. We are all competing every day, we are pushing each other, and I knew that from there I can grow as a player. Also, the school is very good in academics, so I thought it would be a great place to finish my career and get my degree.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
This season I'm definitely looking forward to winning, competing with my teammates, and getting to know everyone.
What is your favorite thing about Irvine so far?
My favorite thing about Irvine is that it's really safe and peaceful. I also like the scenery - the beaches are 15 minutes away, the parks are beautiful, and it's just a really nice environment to be surrounded by.
Year: Senior
Height: 5-7
Position: Guard
Hometown: Pittsburg, Calif.
Previous School: UNCG
High School: Salesian College Preparatory
Major: Psychology
Makiah Asidanya is a senior transfer from UNC Greensboro. Last year, she averaged career-highs of 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists for the Spartans. She was also a two-time SoCon Player of the Week and was named to the conference's all-academic team. Asidanya is from Northern California where she led Salesian College Preparatory to a CIF-North Coast Section Open Division championship as a senior in 2023.
How did you get started playing basketball?
I got started playing basketball through being involved in sports as a kid. I played softball, basketball, and did dance. I did that up until middle school and just kind of stuck with basketball and that's what brought me here.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue basketball at the collegiate level?
I knew that I wanted to pursue basketball when I first started AAU. I was surrounded by a bunch of talented players and I saw how far it could take me. So, about sixth grade was when I really knew I could use it to help further my education, but also just become a great player.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your basketball career?
My biggest inspiration has been my family. They sacrificed so much and really did everything they could to get me here today. I also have siblings who look up to me, and I have a great village at home - trainers, uncles, aunties, cousins, grandparents - so, honestly all of them are my biggest inspiration and what keeps me going every day.
How would you describe your playing style to fans who have never seen you play before?
I don't want to say nonchalant, but I kind of just do whatever presents itself at the moment. I like to shoot a lot and sometimes I like to get downhill, so I would just say I play freely.
Why did you choose UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine because I knew I would get pushed every single day, not only by the coaches and their determination, but by the players and the people I surround myself with. We are all competing every day, we are pushing each other, and I knew that from there I can grow as a player. Also, the school is very good in academics, so I thought it would be a great place to finish my career and get my degree.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
This season I'm definitely looking forward to winning, competing with my teammates, and getting to know everyone.
What is your favorite thing about Irvine so far?
My favorite thing about Irvine is that it's really safe and peaceful. I also like the scenery - the beaches are 15 minutes away, the parks are beautiful, and it's just a really nice environment to be surrounded by.
Players Mentioned
Guard
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