Women's Basketball | November 9

DeKALB, IL – Northern Illinois University women's basketball head coach Lisa Carlsen announced on Wednesday the signings of Shannon Blacher and Maddy Fay to National Letters of Intent. Blacher and Fay will join the Huskies starting with the 2023-24 season.
 
"Both of these young ladies come from great high school programs that are well coached and have a tradition of winning," said Carlsen. "They are both very good students and come from great families. They love to work at the game and will be perfect fits for our team. I couldn't be more excited to see Maddy and Shannon in an NIU uniform." 
 
Fay, a 6'1" forward from Palatine, Ill., is in her senior year at Fremd High School. A versatile player who can fit both post positions, Fay was an Honorable Mention All-State selection in class 4A in 2022 in leading the Vikings to a regional title. She is ranked as the #19 player in the class of 2023 in Illinois by Prep Girls Hoops. Fay has played AAU basketball for Illinois Elite.
 
A 5'10" guard from Burr Ridge, Ill., Blacher is entering her senior season at Montini Catholic High School. She was a member of the Broncos' Girls Catholic Athletic Conference championship team in 2019-20 as a freshman, a season that saw Montini go 33-5 and finish third in the IHSA Class 3A state tournament. Last season Blacher was a Second Team All-State selection after averaging 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. She helped guide Montini to another GCAC title and a regional championship. She is ranked as the #22 player in Illinois in the class of 2023 according to Prep Girls Hoops. Blacher has played AAU basketball for Illinois Lady Lightning.
 
"Maddy is an athletic forward with an elite ability to rebound the basketball," Carlsen said. "Shannon is a versatile guard and a strong defender. She can also score at all three levels."
 
The Huskies take on DePaul in the home opener at the NIU Convocation Center on Saturday, Nov. 12. Tipoff is at 1 p.m. For tickets, log on to NIUHuskies.com or call the NIU Athletics Ticket Office as 815-753-PACK (7225).
 
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