In this week's installment of Meet the Pioneers, get to know freshman Maiya Michel, a 5-11 forward from Loma Linda, Calif.

Before Denver: 2009-10 varsity basketball captain • received Varsity Intensity and Hustle award and the Academic Excellence award for two years • 2008-09 Outstanding Athletic Achievement award • 2008-09 Sunkist League Basketball Champions (10-0) • 2008-09 Division II A Final Four • 2007-08 California State Championships CIF Finals Participant • 2007-08 California Interscholastic Federation - Outstanding Athletic Achievement.

Personal: Born November 17, 1992 in Loma Linda, Calif. • daughter of Reginald and Yvonne Michel • has two sisters, Desiree' (22) and Nicole (18) • plans on majoring in mechanical engineering • chose to attend the University of Denver because of its mechanical engineering program and the coaching staff • was also recruited by Gonzaga, Columbia, California State University, Dartmouth College, Loyola Marymount, etc. • would like to one day play basketball in Europe or for the WNBA, and start her own engineering business • involved with the Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser, National Honor Society and the Principals' Honor role • enjoys playing video games and staying physically fit.