One could hear the motivational music thundering in the background, as Kelly had finally proven to herself and the Ivy League that she had arrived.

Yet as in every classic tale, there seemed to be one final step to be taken, one final challenge begging to be faced.

Harvard advanced to its first NCAA Tournament bid ever, traveling to Nashville to take on Vanderbilt, the same team against which Kelly had ruined her knee.

In preparation for this David-Goliath showdown, Kelly's father, Jim Black, chartered a bus that would eventually seat 50 of Kelly's supporters--her parents, her hometown fans and her former coaches--all of whom would make the five-hour trip from Atlanta.

"I have never felt so happy, so proud, seeing that group and my parents at one of the biggest moments of my life," she said.

Though leading at halftime, and despite setting a NCAA Tournament record for three-pointers in a game, the Crimson would fall. Nevertheless, Kelly had successfully returned to the region where so many people had condemned her decision to travel north.

CHAPTER FOUR: THE DRAMATIC BUILDUP

After being elected co-captain of the 1996-97 squad, Kelly has led the Crimson out of the starting blocks fast. Already possessing a perfect 7-0 league record, the Crimson seems poised to capture a second straight Ivy League title.

Black currently stands third on the team in scoring, and ranks in the league's top ten leaders in blocked shots and field goal percentage.

But perhaps the most telling characteristic of Kelly's career emerges in her role as captain; often unable to sprint with the team, Kelly stands to the side when the team is chastised, laboring away with push-ups or sit-ups while the other players run.

"I've had to adjust to doing things differently," she said. "On teams with less chemistry and camaraderie, my situation would be troublesome."

While her teammates often ask her if she's sad with such few collegiate games left, all she can do is smile.

"My freshman year I questioned the possibility if I'd ever play, much less be a starter, much less a captain!" she exclaims. "Seven more league games are seven more games I didn't think I would play in."

In the strange twists and turns of life, Kelly's injuries have brought much more to her career than just countless tears.

"Kathy says that things happen for a reason, and though its easy to say, I truly cherish every opportunity I get to play," she said. "I've learned so much more about aspects of life that I never gave any time to."