But Harvard will enter the game without sophomore guard Jennifer Lee, a player who became a force for the Crimson at the end of last year. Lee left the team last week citing personal reasons.

“It has nothing to do with the team or the offense or the coaches,” Lee said. “It was more of a personal decision. I just didn’t feel happy—the atmosphere wasn’t for me. Basically, the Crimson style of play is not my style of play. I prefer to be less confined to a system. I like to free-reign, more pick-up style basketball.”

Since leaving the team, Lee has been playing more pick-up basketball, enjoying the game with less pressure.

“I’m sad because Jen loves basketball,” Delaney-Smith said. “We really loved having Jen on the team—that’s the side of it that affects the team. The nice thing about us is that we are a very deep team. [Sophomore Dirkja Dunham] has become one of the first guards off of the bench. She’s arguably the best perimeter guard on the team.”

Dunham has stepped up for the Crimson, filling Lee’s role as the first guard off the bench.

“Physically, [Lee] can do things

that no one else can as far as her jump shot and her pure athletic ability go,” Gates said. “We can fill in physically for her loss, but it’s hard to lose a friend from the team.”

The Crimson won’t have to look far to find Lee’s encouragement. In addition to rooming with and near several players, Lee intends to remain a supportive presence for the team.

“I will definitely show my support to the team,” Lee said. “I love my teammates. Just because I’m not on the team anymore doesn’t mean I won’t be at the games.”