A year ago, NIU struggled to a 6-22 record and never strung consecutive victories together. A ROOF JOB NIU's recent winning ways can also be credited at least in part to the return of newfound depth in the front line. But that contribution is dwarfed by the 6-4 giant's defensive impact. Shattuck ranks sixth in the MAC with an average of 1.00 blocked shots per game, despite playing only 10.2 minutes per appearance. The 5-11 senior wears number 45 for coach Carol Hammerle's team.
Successful teams have more than one way to win games.
So a glance at the last three box scores shows why it's not surprising that Northern Illinois has won seven of its last nine. Versus Miami, NIU limited the RedHawks to 39 percent shooting and only allowed eight free throw attempts. Huskie coach Carol Hammerle has one of the youngest teams in the Mid-American Conference, but consider this one. Through 19 games this season, the Huskies' leaders in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals are all underclassmen. Those three players lead a group of underclassmen making an early impact on the Northern Illinois program.