RIPON, Wis. -- The Ripon College women's basketball team celebrated Alumni Day in historic fashion, earning a 61-50 victory over Knox College on Saturday afternoon at Weiske Gymnasium. With the win, the Red Hawks improved to 16-2 overall and 9-0 in Midwest Conference play, marking the best start to a season in program history.

Ripon came out sharp on both ends of the floor, building an early advantage behind strong defensive pressure and efficient offense in the paint. The Red Hawks opened the game on an 18-12 run after the first quarter and continued to control the pace in the second, extending the lead to 36-25 at halftime.

The Red Hawks' defense set the tone throughout the afternoon, limiting second-chance opportunities and forcing turnovers that led to transition points. Ripon also dominated the glass, creating extra possessions that helped maintain momentum heading into the break.

After halftime, Ripon weathered a slower offensive stretch in the third quarter, but the defense remained steady, holding Knox to 11 points in the period. The Red Hawks entered the final quarter with an eight-point cushion and responded with their most efficient offensive stretch of the game.

Ripon shot 60 percent from the field in the fourth quarter and converted key free throws down the stretch to pull away. The Red Hawks' composure late ensured the Alumni Day crowd was able to celebrate a wire-to-wire conference victory.

Junior Sophie Schlieve (Antigo, Wis., Antigo HS) led all scorers with 22 points, shooting 11-for-18 from the floor while adding seven rebounds. Junior Laney Havlovitz (Wild Rose, Wis., Wild Rose HS) posted a strong all-around performance with 12 points, nine rebounds, and four assists. Sophomore Halle Van Horn (Fredonia, Wis., Random Lake HS) contributed eight points, six rebounds, and three assists, while sophomore Karsyn Nelson (Cottage Grove, Wis., Monona Grove HS) added eight points and consistent defensive pressure.

Ripon also leaned on its depth and physical play to control the game, outrebounding Knox 42-25, including 15 offensive rebounds that led to key second-chance opportunities. The Red Hawks forced 15 turnovers and capitalized with 20 points off those miscues, while consistently attacking the paint for 38 points inside. Strong defensive pressure and energy from the bench helped Ripon maintain momentum throughout the afternoon and pull away late.

The Red Hawks will look to continue their historic start when they return to Midwest Conference action on the road at Lake Forest on Tuesday, Jan 27. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30pm.