E.C. Hill knows a thing or two about NIU basketball.

She’s done about all you could with the Huskies: six years as an assistant coach, a two-time player MVP and she’s an NIU Hall of Famer.

Not a shabby resume.

Hill took some time to talk with the Northern Star about her desire to stay with the Huskies under first-year head coach Kathi Bennett, if she still laces her sneakers to play and her exquisite fashion taste.

Northern Star: When Kathi Bennett got hired to take over as head coach, how much did you want to be a part her staff and remain with NIU?

E.C. Hill: This is home. I had a great college experience here as a player and I wanted to stay here as long as I could. I had the opportunity to speak with her at her press conference and she was still feeling things out. The blessing came a couple days later and she asked me [to be on her coaching staff] and I was really honored. I was already interested to stay here.

NS: Did you participate in the NIU women’s basketball alumni game this past weekend?

EH: No, I’m done.

NS: Is there any time when you get the itch to get back onto the court?

EH: Certain possessions, only on the half court but not whole court.

NS: When you’re coaching Huskie guards Marke Freeman, Bianca Brown or any of the other ladies during a game, do you ever have a flashback or a moment that reminds you of your younger self?

EH: I try not to do that because it’s unfair to them so I try to look for what we need and what’s good for coach Bennett and what she likes. You always got to go out and find the players who she likes because she’s the leader of our program and try to fill in spots that we need.

NS: Coach, we at the Northern Star have pegged you as the best dressed NIU assistant coach.

EH: [Laughing] Well, tell your staff I appreciate that.

NS: Where does you sense of style come from?

EH: Actually during the course of the week, we’re always wearing sweats and stuff. So when it’s time to dress up for games, I really take it seriously. Playing overseas in Italy has given me some insight.

NS: So you got a little European flavor and taste?

EH: Yes, being in Italy helped out. I love to dress nice and I take that as a compliment so thank you, guys.

NS: No problem coach, thanks for the chat. It was a pleasure.

EH: Thank you, thank you.