Even more troublesome is the fact that the Crimson’s biggest inside threat, Cusworth, is expected to miss 4-6 weeks due to a foot injury.

Other than Norman, Cusworth was the biggest non-senior contributor last year, averaging 6.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.

So now, all eyes have shifted to the junior captain.

“It’s a very difficult thing for Jason to step into,” Sullivan said. “You don’t feel the [same thing seniors do]. You know, sometimes seniors say, ‘Okay, this is my last 26 games. Okay, this is my last seven games. Okay, this is my last practice. This might be end of the road for me.’ But he has two years.”

With Cusworth sidelined for the time being, much of the scoring burden will fall on the shoulders of Harvard’s three-guard attack. Though Sullivan remains unclear about who his starters will be, Norman will be joined in the back court by juniors Kevin Rogus and David Giovacchini and sophomore Michael Beal. Last year, that trio averaged only 6.6 points and 2.3 rebounds per game—combined.

So, when it comes right down to it, the pressure has never been greater. But if there is one man who can lead Harvard to the top, it is Jason Norman. Just don’t look for him to admit it. It’s not his style.

—Staff writer Evan R. Johnson can be reached at erjohns@fas.harvard.edu.