Mercedes, a candidate for Ivy League Player of the Year, recorded a career-high 37 points on 12-of-20 shooting while Barnes, a candidate for Rookie of the Year honors, finished with 21 points and seven assists.
"It was a phenomenal exhibition for Mercedes, but I was happy with the way we rebounded," said Harvard Coach Frank Sullivan.
The Crimson held a decisive 37-28 edge over the Big Red and limited second-chance baskets by pulling down 30 defensive rebounds.
Both Prasse-Freeman and sophomore center Brian Sigafoos ended the evening with seven rebounds and 17 points. Prasse-Freeman also chipped in a game-high 11 assists.
Harvard 66, Columbia 61
Trailing by one with 10.3 seconds left in the game, Harvey hit a runner in the lane to give Harvard the lead at 62-61.
After an errant pass from Lions guard Derrick Mayo, Harvey was fouled with 8.4 seconds left and made both free throws to extend the Crimson lead to 64-61. Another miscue from Mayo on the ensuing possession resulted in a Gellert interception at halfcourt. Gellert was fouled with one second left and hit both of his free throws for the final margin of victory.
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