JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – As a team in the thick of the postseason race, Ripon can't afford to lose games they should win. Friday night was an example of that type of game and the Red Hawks didn't disappoint, defeating Illinois College 91-77. That win keeps Ripon tied for first with Grinnell, who defeated Carroll Friday night, knocking the Pioneers a game back of the two league leaders.

The beginning of the game proved to be tougher than the rest of it. The Blueboys got out to a quick lead and held that lead for the first five minutes. The Red Hawks then rattled off 12 consecutive points capped by a layup by Brian Schmitting, who had another outstanding game. Illinois College would get as close as three points in the half, before Ripon turned it up a notch to take an 11-point lead into the locker rooms.

Ripon began the second half much like they ended the first. The Red Hawks built a 24-point lead midway through the second period and it looked as if they'd cruise to an easy victory. The victory though, didn't come easy. Illinois College would cut that lead to eight with just under three minutes remaining. The Red Hawks then showed what championship-caliber teams are made of, as they iced the game at the free throw line. Ripon, who attempted just 15 shots in the second half, making nine of them, had plenty of practice at the charity stripe. They attempted 35 free throws in the half, making 29 for an 83 percentage. The Red Hawks also shot 53 percent from the field for the game.

Schmitting led the Red Hawks with game-highs of 21 points and 13 rebounds, as he continues to keep Ripon afloat with his recent play. Bo Johnson and David McMullen each scored 16 points. McMullen also added eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Vehantre Brown finished with 13 points off the bench on 5-of-7 shooting. Paul Wise and Chris Kellett chipped in with 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Illinois College was led by Joe Womble's 19 points. Mark Gillingham, who killed Ripon in a loss to the Red Hawks earlier in the year, was held to 12 points, while Mitchell Neally finished with 11 points and five rebounds. The Blueboys were outscored in the paint 38-20.

Ripon will try to keep their winning ways going as they'll travel to Knox College Saturday for a 4:00 game. That contest will be followed by the women's game against the Prairie Fire.