Ripon began Saturday's game against Viterbo in day two of the UW-Platteville Tournament the way they finished the game on Friday, which was less than satisfactory. Despite spotting Viterbo a 14 point lead in the first four minutes of the contest, the Red Hawks roared back for a 76-65 victory.

Viterbo (0-5) came out of the gates firing on all cylinders, as they scored took their largest lead of the game of 14 points with 16:13 left in the first half. Just when it looked like it could be a long day at the office for the Red Hawks (1-1), they put a run of their own together, going on a 27-8 run to take a five point lead of their own. Ripon would go into halftime, sporting a two point lead.

Viterbo made a mini-run once again to start the second half, going up by one point with just under 16 minutes to play. That would be their only lead of the second half however, as senior Bo Johnson gave Ripon the lead for good on a jumpshot, which was assisted by David McMullen. From there, Ripon held Viterbo at arm's length, getting out to an 11 point lead with five and a half minutes remaining. The two teams would exchange baskets the rest of the way, and Ripon was able to hit 11-of-14 free throws in the final two minutes to put the game on ice.

Leading the way for Ripon was Johnson, who scored 21 points on 6-of-13 shooting. McMullen tacked on 15 points, to go along with six assists, while Brian Schmitting scored 14, while grabbing eight boards. Vehantre Brown was the other Red Hawk in double figures, scoring 13 points on 5-of-7 shooting. The Red Hawks refused to let the V-Hawks back into the game, as Ripon shot 62 percent from the field in the second half.

Viterbo was led by Jeremy Fradette, who was the only player on the team in double figures, with 24 points, to go along with 11 rebounds. Greg Jefferies and Brad Hammann each chipped in with eight points.

The Red Hawks will try to keep their winning ways next Friday, as they'll travel to UW-Stevens Point for a matchup with the Pointers. Gametime is set for 7:00 in Stevens Point, Wis.