She ranks first on the Crimson and eighth in the conference in kills per set. Her game has also expanded past just an attacking prowess, as Wallace has recorded career highs in assists and digs per set.

“I truly believe that she is one the best outside hitters in the Ivy League,” Holte said. “She’s improved every facet of her game. Her service [play has] been incredible…. I am so thankful for [her] improving every part of her game, not just the flashy parts.”

Columbia will be Harvard’s first task this weekend.

The Lions had struggled coming into last weekend, but were able to snap a three-game losing skid against Penn on Saturday, which halted the Quakers from nabbing a share of the conference lead.

Junior Zoe Jacobs was a big reason Columbia was able to pull off the small upset, notching 17 kills in only four sets. The next-closest player only had eight on the night.

The third-year star ranks seventh in kills per set in the conference, just edging Wallace.

Senior Bailey Springer caused fits for the Crimson last year, notching 22 kills—just three shy of her career high—against Harvard last season.

Harvard finishes the first portion of its Ivy League schedule against perhaps its weakest opponent in Cornell, which has yet to notch a win in conference play.

In its five games against Ancient Eight opponents, the Big Red has only won four sets.

Sophomore Emily Wemhoff looks to have to play a key role in upsetting the Crimson on Saturday, as she’s led Cornell in kills per set with just over two-and-a-half per game.

“Every team deserves our respect and attention,” Kebe said. “We tried to prepare for Cornell and Columbia just like we’d prepare for Brown and Yale.”

Staff writer Kurt T. Bullard can be reached at kurtbullard@college.harvard.edu.