Preview of Friday’s Ivy League Men’s Basketball Game PHILADELPHIA (Interstat) — A pivotal Ivy League rematch awaits Friday night at The Palestra as the Penn Quakers host the Columbia Lions, with both teams looking to solidify their conference standing. The game, scheduled for Feb. 13, 2026, comes just two weeks after Columbia (14-8, 3-4 Ivy) edged Penn 72-67 in New York on Jan. 30. The Lions currently hold the upper hand in the season series and sit a half-game ahead of the Quakers (11-10, 3-5) in the league table. Columbia seeks to rebound from a disappointing 88-67 home loss to Cornell last Saturday. Despite the defeat, guard Kenny Noland continued his strong play, scoring 21 points. Noland has been a consistent offensive force, averaging 18.0 points per game over his last six contests, including a 29-point, 10-rebound performance in a win at Dartmouth on Jan. 24. Penn enters with momentum from a dramatic 61-60 victory over Princeton last Saturday, secured on their home floor. Forward TJ Power led the way with 18 points and seven rebounds. Power, who scored 23 points in the earlier loss to Columbia, has averaged 17.2 points over his last five games and will be central to Penn’s revenge effort. The matchup features contrasting recent trajectories. While Penn has won two of its last three, Columbia has dropped three of its last four after a promising start to league play. The Lions’ road record will be tested, as the historic Palestra provides a distinct home-court advantage for the Quakers. Defensive intensity will likely dictate the tempo. In the first meeting, Columbia held Penn to 39% shooting from the field. The Quakers will aim for a more efficient offensive night while containing Noland’s scoring versatility. The outcome carries significant weight for the Ivy League postseason picture, with both teams jockeying for position ahead of the final month of conference play. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST Friday at The Palestra. Penn will host Cornell on Saturday, while Columbia travels to face Princeton.