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The 6-foot, 175-pound senior is often yielding a minimum of four inches to his counterpart. Whatever height disadvantage McCarthy may have, the Harrison Daily Voice January Student-Athlete of the Month compensates for with tenacity and determination on the court.
McCarthy is well aware that his opposite number will underestimate him and he said that is a big mistake.
“Don’t always judge a book by its cover,” McCarthy said. “I may not be as tall as the guy I’m guarding, but I am going to play physical, push him around the paint and get an edge on him.”
McCarthy is used to playing against bigger players after playing power forward last year. Knowing he would be playing center this year, McCarthy spent his summer bulking up.
“I spent a lot of time in the weight room,” McCarthy said. “I also suggested to coach that we, as a team, need to get in the weight room and we do that every other day.”
McCarthy embraces his position and the challenge that goes with it. One thing that Harrison coach Gary Chiarella can always count on is a solid effort from McCarthy. The senior won’t have it any other way.
“I take pride in my defense and rebounding,” McCarthy said. “Once I see the ball go up, I am on a body to box out and get the rebound. I need to do my job in order for us to succeed.
“I’m a hustle player. That’s what I live to play for.”
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