The Huskies’ recent split with powerhouse Illinois State could provide NIU’s softball team with the inspiration it needs for this weekend’s games.

However, the Huskies will be cautious not to become overconfident after their 1-0 10-inning upset over ISU in the first game of a doubleheader Wednesday afternoon.

ISU, a Top-20 team, is a sharp contrast from the Huskies’ upcoming North Star Conference opponents.

Saturday, NIU will play host to Wright State for a 1 p.m. doubleheader.

The Huskies will play another twin bill when conference rival Valparaiso visits NIU for a 1 p.m. Sunday battle.

Neither team boasts a record that compares with the talent of the ISU Redbirds. But that doesn’t mean the Huskies will be taking their opponents lightly.

Wright State (5-19, 0-6) has had difficulty winning ballgames this season, but it is not due to a lack of talent.

“They have a number of losses but they’ve been in most of the games until the end,” said Wright State Sports Information Director Gary Giles. “It’s just a case of being outplayed.”

Valparaiso, despite losing 25 games and winning just 11, has a .500 record in the NSC (2-2) and is a team to contend with.

The Huskies, 0-2 in conference action, will be looking for their first NSC victory. Overall the squad stands at 15-16.