RIPON, Wisconsin – After a 64-54 loss to Ripon College this afternoon, the Prairie Fire women’s basketball team finished the Midwest Conference (MWC) season with a 15-1 record to claim a share of the regular season conference crown. This is the first regular season title for women’s basketball in program history.
After losing a coin flip, Knox will now travel to Ripon as they host the conference tournament on February 24 and 25. Knox will play Cornell in the first round on Friday, time to be announced.
The Prairie Fire saw their program best winning streak of 14 games come to an end today, but still finished the regular season with 20 wins, another program record.
Ripon took a 14-4 lead in the first quarter and led 26-13 by halftime.
Knox chipped away at the lead in the third quarter and trailed just 41-37 heading into the final period.
Haylee Carpenter hit a three-pointer to open the fourth quarter and bring the Prairie Fire within one point. The Redhawks proceeded to go on a 14-0 run to take another commanding lead. Ripon held on for the victory.
Kristin Herndon led Knox with 15 points on 6-of-10 shooting. Kylee Callahan added 13 points and Carpenter scored 11 points. Catessa Duran tallied nine points and 11 rebounds.
“Today was a setback, but ultimately our most important game is ahead of us,” said head coach Kira Mowen. “While it is disappointing that we don’t get to host, we have a week to get ready for a matchup with Cornell. We will continue to prepare like we have all year and I like our chances to continue our season.”
***Story and photo courtesy of Knox College athletics***
