RIPON, Wis. -- The Ripon College women's basketball team celebrated a historic afternoon Saturday, earning an 88-56 home victory as head coach Lauren Busalacchi recorded her 200th career win at Ripon inside Weiske Gymnasium.

The Red Hawks controlled the game from the opening tip, jumping out to a 21-12 lead after the first quarter and never looking back. Ripon continued to build separation in every period, using defensive pressure and efficient offense to keep momentum firmly on its side.

Sophomore Halle Van Horn (Fredonia, Wis., Random Lake HS) paced the Red Hawks with a game-high 18 points, finishing efficiently around the basket while adding six rebounds and three assists. Junior Laney Havlovitz (Wild Rose, Wis., Wild Rose HS) followed with 13 points on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting performance, also dishing out four assists to help fuel Ripon's transition attack. Senior Natalie Rauwolf (Madison, Wis., Madison Memorial HS) added 12 points, knocking down timely shots and contributing defensively with two steals.

Ripon's depth was on full display, as the bench accounted for 35 points in the win. Senior Molly Johannes (Eldorado, Wis., Laconia HS) provided an instant spark off the bench, scoring 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting while grabbing three rebounds. Freshman Cali Havlovitz (Wild Rose, Wis., Wild Rose HS) chipped in six points and four rebounds, while sophomore Alex Stricker (Sheboygan, Wis., Sheboygan Lutheran HS), junior Maddi Friedle (McHenry, Ill., McHenry HS), junior Nadia Hoffa (Coloma, Wis., Westfield Area HS), freshman Naomi Rikkola (Sturgeon Bay, Wis., Sevastopol HS), and senior Presley Buwalda (Randolph, Wis., Randolph HS) each contributed scoring and energy during extended minutes.

The Red Hawks dominated in the paint, outscoring their opponent 52-14, and controlled the glass with 41 total rebounds. Junior Sophie Schlieve (Antigo, Wis., Antigo HS) led the rebounding effort with seven boards, anchoring Ripon's interior defense. The Red Hawks also forced 22 turnovers, converting those opportunities into 31 points.

Ripon shot 46.9 percent from the field and was nearly flawless at the free-throw line, converting 26 of 29 attempts. The Red Hawks extended their lead throughout the second half, outscoring their opponent 44-31 after halftime and closing the game with confidence.

The milestone victory marked the 200th win at Ripon for Head Coach Lauren Busalacchi, reflecting the program's sustained success and consistency under her leadership. The Red Hawks' performance provided a fitting celebration of a historic achievement on their home court.

Next up, the Red Hawks travel to Lawrence University for a 7:30pm game on Wedneday, Feb 4.