Nov. 14, 2008

DEKALB, Ill.-NIU head women's basketball coach Carol Owens announced Shaakira Haywood and Brittney Callahan each signed their National Letter of Intent to play basketball for Northern Illinois next season.

Callahan, a guard from Pinkerton North High School in Pickerington, Ohio, helped lead the Panthers to a Division I Central District title last season. Haywood is a 6-2 center from Plymouth High School in Canton, Mich.

"Shaakira is a post player that has a lot of athletic ability. I can't wait until she gets here," Owens said. "She's a great young lady, very intelligent. Watching her develop from year to year, her best basketball is ahead of her. She will be a great compliment to our team.

"Brittney is a great kid. She's not shy at all. What I like most about Brittney is she can score and she'll compete defensively. She hates to lose. I love her competitive spirit."

The Northern Illinois University women's basketball team embarks on its 2008-09 campaign when the Huskies play host to IUPUI tonight at the Convocation Center. Tip off is set for 7 p.m.

Tickets are available at www.niuhuskies.com or by calling the Athletics Ticket Office at 815-752-6800. A season ticket package for both the men's and women's basketball teams is available for $135, while single game tickets for women's basketball games can be purchased for $5.

The NIU Marketing Department has several exciting promotions going for the Huskies' home opener. Students sitting Section 101 will have a chance to win tickets for the upcoming Young Jeezy Concert being held at the Convocation Center Saturday, Nov. 15, 2008 and will be treated to free popcorn. Also, fans will receive the Official 2008-09 Women's Basketball T-shirt sponsored by Midwest Orthopedic Institute and TCF Bank.

-NIU-