CMU Women’s Basketball team has dominated this season. With just one loss on their record, the Mavericks sit at 20–1 as of Jan. 27. This establishes the Mavericks as one of the top teams in the RMAC.
Much of the team’s success can be traced back to head coach Taylor Wagner, now in his 14th season at CMU. Wagner said his motivation comes from building a team culture and working with his players.
“I just love showing up and building a team,” Wagner said. “Being around the ladies, they do a great job. They work hard, and they make the job fun.”
Wagner emphasized his philosophy of focusing on daily improvement rather than long term outcomes.
“I think it’s a small goal, but it’s probably the most important to win every day,” Wagner said. “If we can win the day, then those larger goals at the end of the year will be something we can accomplish.”
Senior forward Olivia Reed Thyne is a cornerstone of the Mavericks’ success. Thyne credited Wagner and the program for her development as both a player and leader.
“I really believe in the program and in Coach Wagner and everything that he stands for,” Thyne said. “I’ve learned how to be a leader and how to work really hard. It’s hard to put into words how it all happened.”
Wagner recalled Thyne’s first college basketball game, highlighting how far she has come.
“I remember her first game her shoe was untied, and her hands were shaking. She couldn’t even tie her own shoe,” Wagner said. “Now she’s a great leader and has broken so many records.”
On Jan. 24, Thyne became the all time leading scorer in RMAC history with 2003 points and counting, further cementing her legacy at CMU.
Thyne’s journey is supported by longtime teammate and friend Mykalea Moore, who transferred to CMU after she started her collegiate career at Colorado Christian. The two played together at Windsor High School, and Thyne said having Moore back by her side means everything.
“Mykaela is one of my best friends, and she means so much to me,” Thyne said. “To share the best moments and the hard moments with her truly means everything.”
Despite her accolades, Thyne said staying grounded is important. She credited her faith for keeping her perspective during the season.
“One way I’ve really grown is through my faith,” Thyne said. “My relationship with God has helped me understand that my worth isn’t in basketball or points. That allows me to play free and be fearless.”
Sophomore guard Mason Rowland also played a significant role this season after she returned from an ACL injury that sidelined her early last year.
“It was a stepping stone,” Rowland said. “You just have to know it happened for a reason, put in the work, and everything will eventually pay off.”
Rowland praised the program’s culture and leadership.
“They’ve set a standard with work ethic and defense,” Rowland said. “At the end of the day, we want to play Maverick basketball.”
Finding balance has been a challenge for players and coaches alike. Wagner said the nonstop nature of coaching makes it difficult to turn off the basketball mindset.
“You’re always thinking about a game or a player,” Wagner said. “You really have to force yourself to step away and spend time with family.”
Thyne echoed the difficulty of balancing life as a student athlete, wife and team leader.
“It’s hard to know how hard it is when you’re really in it,” Thyne said. “I try to be the best in every role I have.”
With 10 regular season games remaining, the Mavericks are focused on maintaining their momentum and preparing for the postseason. Wagner encouraged fans to support the team during its historic run.
“If you haven’t come out, come watch this team,” Wagner said. “It’s really special, especially with our seniors like Olivia and Mykaela. Our team is fun to watch.”
