RIPON, Wisconsin - In a Midwest Conference women's basketball match up, The Beloit College Buccaneer struggled against a strong Ripon College team, falling 67-44 on January 4th, 2025. The loss dropped Beloit to 1-12 overall and 0-4 in conference play, while Ripon improved to 9-3 (3-0).

The game started slowly for Beloit, who managed just 6 points in the first quarter while shooting 7.7% from the field. Despite getting clean looks, the Buccaneers couldn't find their rhythm early, going 1-13 in the opening frame. Ripon built a 14-6 lead behind balanced scoring and strong defensive play.

Bailey Darneal (Colorado Springs, CO) provided a bright spot for Beloit, leading the team with a season-high13 points on efficient 6-7 shooting off the bench. Johanna McNair (Fishers, Ind.) added 9 points and 6 rebounds in a team-high 28 minutes of play. The Buccaneers showed fight in the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points - their highest-scoring period of the game.

However, Ripon's depth and inside presence proved too much to overcome. The Red Hawks dominated points in the paint (44-24) and enjoyed a significant rebounding advantage (46-26). Ripon's Ella Ten Pas led all scorers with 12 points, while Halle Van Horn controlled the glass with 10 rebounds.

Beloit's offensive woes continued throughout, as they shot just 29.4% for the game and 15.4% from three-point range. While the team competed hard and forced 21 Ripon turnovers, they were unable to convert enough of those opportunities into points.

Despite the loss, the Buccaneers showed occasional flashes, particularly during a 7-0 run in the fourth quarter sparked by strong defensive play and transition opportunities. However, Ripon's consistent execution and superior depth allowed them to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the second half.

The Buccaneers return home to Flood Arena on Wednesday, January 8th to host the Illinois College Lady Blues. Tip off is set for 5:30 pm.