RIPON, Wis. -- Ripon men's basketball delivered one of its most competitive outings of the season Wednesday night, going stride-for-stride with undefeated No. 7 UW–La Crosse before the Eagles pulled away late in a 72-62 decision at Weiske Gymnasium.
The Red Hawks came out energized, matching La Crosse's physicality and execution throughout a tightly contested first half that featured 12 ties and 11 lead changes. Ripon's defensive effort kept the nationally ranked Eagles in check, while balanced scoring from junior Seth Bunders (Wauzeka, Wis., Wauzeka-Steuben HS), sophomore Sam Leoni (Hartland, Wis., Arrowhead HS), and sophomore Michael Asman (Kimberly, Wis., Kimberly HS) helped the Red Hawks stay even. A late free throw from the Eagles sent the teams into the break tied 28-28.
Ripon briefly seized momentum early in the second half when Leoni drilled a three to give the Red Hawks a 31-28 lead. The Eagles responded quickly, but Ripon continued trading baskets behind strong drives from senior CJ Brown (Minneapolis, Minn., Minneapolis North Area HS), timely shooting from junior Jarton Davis (Brown Deer, Wis., Brown Deer HS), and interior play from Asman. The Red Hawks trailed by only a possession several times as the half progressed.
UW-La Crosse finally created separation in the closing minutes, capitalizing on offensive rebounds and transition chances as Ripon's shots began to rim out. Despite the late push from the Eagles, the Red Hawks continued to battle, generating multiple defensive stops but unable to string together the scoring run needed to overtake the top-10 opponent.
Bunders led Ripon with 14 points, three assists, and two blocks, while Leoni added 11 points and four rebounds. Asman finished with 10 points and two steals, and Davis provided a valuable lift off the bench with 11 points. Junior Jack Field (Wisconsin Dells, Wis., Marian University) chipped in eight points and six rebounds.
Ripon returns to action Saturday when they travel to take on MWC opponent, Cornell College. Tip off is set for 1 pm.
