DOVER, DE – Harvard women's volleyball closed out its non-conference slate this afternoon with a 3-0 sweep over NJIT before falling to George Washington to conclude the Delaware State Tournament. 

Harvard Sweeps NJIT to Open the Day

The Crimson started strong, pulling out to an early five-point lead against the Highlanders that was ignited by eight kills.  NJIT didn't go away, going on their own run to tie up the opening set.  With the set tied at 12-12, Harvard went on to outscore the Highlanders 13-5 in the final stretch to move up 1-0 in the match. 

NJIT took back some momentum in the beginning moments of the second set but with the assist of a 5-0 scoring run, the Crimson were able to storm ahead.  While holding off any late set comebacks and notching the final four points with three kills and an ace, Harvard solidified a 2-0 lead with a 25-18 decision. 

Harvard continued to improve as the match carried on, not allowing an early Highlanders run swing the control to NJIT.  Beginning by tying the set at 13-all, the Crimson went on to rattle off 12 of the next 14 points to close out the final frame, 25-15 and complete the sweep. 

Harvard Falls to George Washington

Harvard carried its energy into the early moments of the second match, pulling into an 8-6 lead over George Washington.  After tying up the match at 9-9, the Colonials were able to take a lead that they would not relinquish throughout the rest of the set despite hard fought attempts from the Crimson.  Ultimately, George Washington moved up 1-0 with a 25-21 opening set victory. 

The Colonials pulled ahead to start the second set, but a 5-1 scoring run allowed the Crimson to regain an advantage.  The coming points were a back-and-forth battle between the two squads before a 5-0 George Washington scoring run provided a 17-13 lead.  Using its own 4-1 scoring run, Harvard pulled within one and eventually overtook the lead at 23-22.  The Colonials were able to steal the final three points of the set however, claiming victory with a 25-23 decision. 

Riding the momentum of its 2-0 lead, the Colonials broke out to a strong lead midway through the third set.  Despite the Crimson never losing its fight, George Washington's advantage was enough to cushion to solidify the set and the match with a 25-16 result in the third frame. 

Harvard Highlights

• Brynne Faltinsky totaled 23 kills, 20 digs, and three total blocks for a pair of all-around performances across the Crimson matches today. 
• Corinne Furey proved a strong presence for Harvard this afternoon, totaling 23 kills with a .415 hitting percentage against NJIT and George Washington. 
• Ryleigh Patterson added eight and nine kills in the teams two matches while hitting over .500 percent in each outing.  The sophomore also added nine digs and three total blocks. 
• Rocky Aguirre led the team in assists in either match, totaling 61 on the day and 95 throughout the tournament. 

Next Up

The Crimson will return home next weekend to open Ivy League on Friday, September 27 against Dartmouth.  First serve is set for 7:00 p.m. at the Malkin Athletic Center and on ESPN+.