After a home win against Boston University, the Crimson went on a 6-2 tear in League contests, splitting with Brown and beating every other Ivy team except Penn. All along the way, Harvard's defense was the key. "Our shooting comes and goes," Peljto said. "Defense is definitely our constant."

On Feb. 17, though, Harvard's quest for a title would be thrown for a loop. In a home game against cellar-dwelling Yale, the Crimson dropped a heartbreaking game in overtime, 72-61. Harvard would then alternate wins with losses for the rest of the season, beating Princeton, losing to Penn, topping Columbia and falling to Cornell.

A 73-60 win over Dartmouth on March 6 was a bittersweet end to the season. It was a strong win over a tough and hated rival, but it didn't mean a title.

Like most recent years, the Crimson's season was marred by injury to key players. Melissa Johnson, a 6'5 center and a second-team All-Ivy selection a year ago, spent much of the year sidelined with injury. When she did make it onto the floor late in the season, she found her role taken over by Peljto and Tubridy. She was forced to fight with sophomore sister Sarah, sophomore Kate Ides, and junior Lindsay Ryba for time in the post.

Two seniors who made significant contributions this year were Kowal and

Larkworthy, two players whose injury-riddled careers had limited their contributions in years past. Kowal usually started in a two-point-guard lineup alongside Monti. Larkworthy, used as a defensive stalwart for the instant energy she brings, was one of the first off the bench to play a wing spot.

Gates, a strong junior small forward and clutch shooter, earned honorable mention All-Ivy for her all-around play. She should be one of the offensive options next year after Peljto.

And it will be up to Gates, Monti, Peljto and Tubridy to make next season live up to the promise shown this one. Add in a fifth starter from the deep bench, and this team should be ready to take center stage.