Peljto has spent considerable time this summer and fall refining her passing game.

“I know that’s one aspect I have to work on because I will not get as many easy shots this year,” she said.

In order to guard against the kind of prolific numbers Peljto has produced in the past, opponents will be increasing the defensive pressure. Coach Kathy Delaney-Smith has been preparing for this likelihood.

“[Peljto’s] using the clear-out, and if she doesn’t get something she likes, she’s kicking it to her teammates,” Delaney-Smith said. “She never really did that last year. She really tried to shoot against double and triple teams—and was quite effective doing it. Now she’s doing both [passing and shooting.]”

Peljto was effective enough against such odds, as she placed second in the league in scoring. Now the star forward’s passing improvement will aid the Crimson when the team plays its tough nonconference competition. Harvard will face some of the nation’s top teams, who will be prepared for Peljto’s shooting prowess and force her to use her clear-out.

“Her body’s stronger, better, faster,” Delaney-Smith said.

When the women’s basketball season opens with Syracuse on Nov. 22, Peljto will be primed to lead the Crimson with spirit and intensity.