CMU volleyball bested by Oakland in home opener
Central Michigan University freshman Cheyenne Gunner looks dejected following a loss to Oakland University in the volleyball team's first home game of the season, held in McGuirk Arena on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026. Gunner had three kills throughout the match. (CM Life | Cristin Coppess)
First impressions matter, and the Central Michigan volleyball team didn’t make a great one Wednesday night.
CMU fell to Oakland 3-1 in its home opener Wednesday, Sept. 2. The team is now 0-4 on the season.
Despite the four-game skid, head coach Arielle Wilson is not yet discouraged.
“It doesn't matter what the outcome is. It's more about us building,” Wilson said.
The Chippewas found success through sophomore outside hitter Taylor Cripe, who tallied 16 kills on the night.
“She’s a phenomenal player, and from last year she has big shoes to fill,” Wilson said.
Central Michigan University sophomore Taylor Cripe stares down the volleyball after fiercly hitting it over the net during the volleyball team's home opener against Oakland University, held in McGuirk Arena on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026. Cripe is an outside hitter for the Chippewas. (CM Life | Cristin Coppess)
Cripe had a standout freshman season in 2025, playing in 100 sets and posting 315 total points.
On Wednesday, she was only two kills shy of beating her career high, marking a strong start to her sophomore season.
Wilson hopes to see more players on the board soon.
“She’s a hot commodity, and we want to make sure we can spread the offense,” Wilson said.
Freshman middle blocker Brenna Storz helped, adding 10 kills and assisting in four blocks.
This year’s squad is full of fresh faces, with 11 new players added to the roster.
“We could be meshing better, but again it’s still early,” Wilson said. “I think that this team is special.”
Sophomore setter Brytn Lyon recorded 31 assists and two aces. Freshman defensive specialist Audrey Hackney also had two aces.
CMU volleyball will stay at McGuirk Arena for the remainder of the week, taking on Illinois State on Friday, Sept. 4 and Saturday, Sept. 5 at 4 p.m. and noon, respectively. The team closes the weekend against Michigan State on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 6 p.m.
