Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Marycait Mackie, Loyola basketball

Marycait Mackie is a senior guard for the Ramblers. The four-year varsity player was recently named to the All-Girls Catholic Athletic Conference team and will play for Washington University (St. Louis) starting next year.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

Yes, (senior) Clare Weasler and I have a few. Our coach is pretty superstitious and it rubbed off on us. We take a photo together before every game, and our warmup is very specific, like down to the number of dribbles we take before stretching.

2. Why Washington University?

It’s a really good academic school, which was huge for me. When I visited the girls and met with coaches, I could see myself there with the environment and the team. I’m super excited about it.

3. When did you know basketball was your game?

I started played travel basketball at Over The Edge in third grade. Some friends, some who are on the Loyola team, encouraged me to join and I am so grateful that they did.

4. For a basketball player, you are on the smaller side (5 feet 5 inches) How do you overcome that on the court?

I’d definitely say people underestimate me because of my size and I use that to my advantage. I also use my speed for rebounding, to go get the ball and surprise defenders.

5. What is your top memory from the state championship win in 2024?

I would honestly say just the team we had. With all the girls, it was such a fun ride. We could have won, we could have lost and I would have loved every second of it. They made for such a special season. As a very competitive person, though, I’m very glad we won.

6. Do you have a favorite athlete?

I would probably say Simone Biles. I always love watching the Olympics. Or Kelly Campbell; she used to play with DePaul and I got to train with her a couple times and always looked up to her when I was younger.

7. What is your favorite thing to do off the court?

Definitely hang out with my friends. It doesn’t matter what we do; I just like being around them. They are a lot of fun. Or in the summer, I love going to the beach too. My grandparents have a place on the beach in New Jersey, so you can catch me there in the summer when I’m not playing basketball.

8. If you are in Walgreens with a couple of bucks, what are you buying?

I’d have to go with white-chocolate-covered pretzels. That’s very specific, but that’s my go-to.

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

I used to be an Irish dancer when I was younger. That’s probably a fun fact. I think I did it until about sixth grade. It was really fun around St. Paddy’s Day and holidays. I can definitely still remember the steps. It comes out sometimes on St. Paddy’s Day.

10. What is the biggest key for the Ramblers in these final weeks?

I’d say trusting each other and the coaches and the next shot. Confidence is really key with the playoffs coming up, believing in each other and ourselves. I’m really excited for the playoffs. I feel like we’re playing our best basketball and this is the time to be playing that. I’m excited and know the girls are too.

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