RIPON, Wis. -- Ripon men's basketball put together one of its most competitive offensive performances of the season but ultimately fell 104-95 to Grinnell on Saturday afternoon inside Weiske Gymnasium.
The Red Hawks kept pace in a fast-tempo, high-scoring contest from start to finish, shooting an even 50 percent from the field and 50 percent from three-point range. Ripon trailed 65-51 at halftime after Grinnell caught fire from beyond the arc in the opening 20 minutes, but the Red Hawks responded with a strong second half, outscoring the Pioneers 44-39 after the break.
Senior CJ Brown (Minneapolis, Minn., Minneapolis North Area HS) led the way for Ripon with a team-high 20 points, adding five assists and five steals in an all-around effort. Junior Seth Bunders (Wauzeka, Wis., Wauzeka-Steuben HS) followed closely with 18 points, six rebounds and four assists, while sophomore Michael Asman (Kimberly, Wis., Kimberly HS) chipped in 15 points, highlighted by a perfect 5-for-5 performance at the free-throw line. Junior Jack Field (Wisconsin Dells, Wis., Marian University) provided a spark off the bench, scoring 15 points on a flawless 6-of-6 shooting performance, including three made three-pointers.
Ripon's bench played a key role throughout the game, combining for 35 points and helping the Red Hawks stay within striking distance during Grinnell's scoring runs. The Red Hawks also capitalized on turnovers, scoring 26 points off miscues and matching Grinnell with 26 points in the paint.
Despite the offensive efficiency, Grinnell's depth and perimeter shooting proved decisive. The Pioneers knocked down 19 three-pointers and totaled 66 bench points, maintaining control late despite several Ripon pushes that trimmed the deficit to single digits. Ripon closed within six points in the final minute, but Grinnell sealed the game at the free-throw line.
The Red Hawks showed resilience and balance on both ends, forcing 19 turnovers and staying aggressive throughout all 40 minutes. Ripon will look to build on the performance as conference play continues, carrying momentum from one of its strongest offensive outings of the season.
