With all the new faces on the NIU women’s basketball team this season, there is one who should look familiar to Huskie fans.

While assistant women’s basketball coach Carl Armato is new to the team, he is not new to NIU basketball. He made the switch from men’s assistant coach to the women’s side this off-season.

The NIU alumnus took time out of his schedule to talk with the Northern Star about the upcoming women’s basketball season.

NORTHERN STAR: What kind of transition has it been going from coaching the men to the women?

CARL ARMATO: Probably the biggest difference is the hairstyles and the sports bras. It’s been refreshing to work along with Carol Owens and her staff.

NS: What will you bring with you to the team that will benefit it?

CA: I think some familiarity. Knowing the athletic department and all the people has made for a smooth transition. I’m just happy that when we were there and we were falling, there was somebody there to throw a safety net under me, and that was Carol, so I really appreciate the opportunity that she’s given me.

NS: What are your thoughts on this year’s team?

CA: The program is going in the right direction, coming off 19 wins last year and making it to the semi-finals. I think we have a lot of young talented players. So if they get any kind of coaching, they should be pretty good.

NS: Talking to the players, it seems like they’re really buying into the defensive philosophy this season. Is that refreshing to see?

CA: It is. I think the philosophy of the staff is that defense will win you championships. When you can defend and then rebound I think that gives you an opportunity to be in and win almost every game that you play.