Stephanie Raymond leads the NIU women’s basketball team in points, rebounds, steals and assists.

And when the sophomore guard isn’t playing in a Huskie uniform, she’s probably playing basketball somewhere else, like the Campus Recreation Center with her male counterparts.

After NIU lost to Toledo Wednesday, the former Rockford Lutheran standout took time to talk about tattoos and playing ball with the guys.

Northern Star: I’ve seen you playing basketball at the Rec, and you’re the only girl playing. Do you think the guys ever underestimate you?

Stephanie Raymond: I’ve been going to the Rec a lot, so the guys there know me and that I know how to play. If they don’t recognize me though, I know I’ll do well. But then somebody will end up saying, “Don’t you know her? She plays for the women’s team.”

NS: You practice almost every day – you played all 40 minutes tonight, as you do almost every night – yet you’re still playing at the Rec in your free time. Don’t you get sick of it?

SR: Practice makes perfect. That’s the only way I can get better. I will not get tired. I just won’t.

NS: So does the playing at the Rec help your stamina when you’re out playing for the whole game?

SR: It has more to do with conditioning at practice than just playing. At the Rec, it’s more playing for fun than playing to practice.

NS: At 5-foot-6, you’re the shortest person on the team, but you still lead the team in rebounds and are fourth in blocks. Is height an advantage or disadvantage to you?

SR: Height can be deceiving. It’s shocking to me, because last year I wasn’t getting as many rebounds. But, if anything, it’s an advantage.

NS: What’s the tattoo on your left leg about?

SR: I got it the winter of my freshman year. It says “Love for da game” – I drew it myself.

NS: So when you’re 65, you’ll still be glad you have it?

SR: I may not play it when I’m that old, but I’ll still love it, even when I don’t play any more.

NS: Were you the girl in high school who beat the guys in other sports?

SR: I wanted to play with the guys, but never could because they didn’t want me to get hurt. I like playing with guys though, because I like the physical play.

NS: Ever consider playing football?

SR: If I did, I’d be a receiver. I think I’ve got the hands for it.