Building a Culture of Energy and Belonging: CU Denver Women’s Basketball Sets the Tone for a Hopeful Season
Captains lead a growing program defined by enthusiasm, community, and a renewed love for the game.
DENVER, Colo. — September 2025 — As the University of Colorado Denver’s Club Sports program continues to expand, the Lynx Women’s Basketball Team is emerging as one of its most spirited and tightly knit groups. Led by captains Bella Hernandez (’27), Lena Gomez (’26), Ashlyn Stapleton (’27), and Maria Londoño (’26), the Lynx are entering the new season with a sense of momentum, purpose, and pride unlike ever before.
“If I could describe our team in one word, it would be energetic,” said Hernandez. “Every practice is filled with excitement. Everyone shows up ready to play and bring positive energy, and that’s something we’re proud of.”
That enthusiasm has translated into one of the largest rosters in recent team history. After seasons with limited numbers, CU Denver now boasts nearly 15 active players, signaling a turning point for the program’s growth and sustainability.
“There were times when we barely had enough players to scrimmage,” said Londoño. “Now we have a full team, new uniforms, and even Athletics gear to represent CU Denver. Everything is coming together, it really feels like our hard work is paying off.”
While the Lynx maintain a competitive edge, the captains are equally focused on preserving a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment that keeps players motivated throughout the year.
“We’re a competitive team, but we’re also here to have fun,” said Gomez. “We’re a community of girls who just love basketball. We want people to feel welcome. No matter their background or experience.”
That inclusive culture extends beyond the court as CU Denver continues to raise the profile of its athletics and club programs through expanded media coverage, livestreaming, and campus outreach.
“I’m excited to see the opportunities this visibility brings,” said Hernandez. “Whether it’s recruiting or fundraising, the growth across Club Sports benefits everyone, and helps us reach more students who want to be part of something special.”
“Some people don’t even know we have a women’s basketball team,” Londoño added. “That’s changing, and it’s exciting to see CU Denver recognized for its athletic community.”
Pregame rituals are as varied as the personalities leading the team, ranging from Londoño’s three-point warmups to Stapleton’s lighthearted “Hot Cheetos superstition”. But when the Lynx take the court, their focus and chemistry are clear. Music, confidence, and connection set the tone before every game, powered by everything from Latin hits by Bad Bunny to the team’s highlight video soundtrack, “Surround Sound.”
Inside the locker room, leadership and laughter go hand in hand.
“Lauren’s definitely one of our biggest hype girls this year,” Hernandez said. “She brings so much energy, it really helps the team get locked in.”
When asked which teammate could be the best future coach, the captains agreed: Ashlyn.
“She’s patient, understanding, and knows how to explain things,” Londoño said. “She’d make an amazing coach.”
Ultimately, this season’s captains share one vision: to make CU Denver Women’s Basketball a program known for community, joy, and growth.
“We want to be remembered as a team that supported one another and reminded everyone why they love basketball,” said Gomez. “Here, we want players to rediscover that basketball can be fun again.”
With an expanded roster, strengthened culture, and leadership grounded in positivity, CU Denver Women’s Basketball is poised for a defining season. one driven by teamwork, energy, and Lynx pride.