Name: Noah McCarty

Hometown: Rock Falls, Illinois

Favorite sports team: Chicago Bulls

Interesting fact: Size 17 shoe

Athlete idol/role model: Damian Lillard

“He’s a competitor,” McCarty said. “He doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves. I like the way he goes about things and trying to get better everyday.”

Court strengths: Strength and shooting

“I’m strong,” McCarty said. “I can post up. At the same time, I’m undersized, so I can stretch the floor and shoot the ball.”

Court weaknesses: Defense

“I’m playing the five,” McCarty said. “I’m trying to defend 7-footers. I’m trying to keep them off the boards.”

Favorite teammate: Lacey James

“He’s my roommate,” McCarty said. “We’re pretty close.”

Pre-game rituals: Praying and chicken alfredo

“I always say a few prayers during the national anthem just to get ready,” McCarty said. “I pray for my family. We always have chicken alfredo before games as a team meal.”

Why you enjoy playing for NIU: Local family atmosphere

“It’s close to home, and my family can come watch me play,” McCarty said. “I like the guys, and it’s a good environment. My grandparents, my family and my friends can come and watch.”

McCarty is one of the biggest contributors off NIU’s bench. He averages the most rebounds, the third most points and the third most minutes per game out of the Huskies’ bench players.

His production has increased significantly in his sophomore season. McCarty is averaging more than twice as many minutes, points and rebounds per game in comparison to his freshman year.

Head Coach Mark Montgomery said McCarty’s effort, confidence and leadership are the most significant contributions he makes to the team.

“Noah brings some leadership because he’s already been here for one full season,” Montgomery said. “You know he’s going to give you everything he has. We know Noah isn’t going to sell us short with any effort-related things.”

The Huskies will look to bounce back from their latest loss when they face the University at Buffalo Bulls 3:30 p.m. Saturday in the Convocation Center.