The stage is set for Ripon Christian’s winner-take-all capper to the Trans-Valley League season.

The reigning champion Knights took care of dangerous Riverbank on Wednesday 53-42 at home.

They were headed by sophomore guard Jake Vander Veen’s 19 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Senior center Jace Beidleman added 10 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks.

Ripon Christian (10-1 TVL, 20-6 overall) started hot, draining five 3-pointers on the way to an early 15-2 lead. The margin peaked late in the third quarter when the Knights were ahead 38-16, but Riverbank (6-5, 17-9) surged back into the game with a 15-2 spurt of its own.

The Bruins cut the deficit down to seven with 1:12 remaining but could not get closer.

Luke Crivello contributed 11 points, five rebounds and four assists for Ripon Christian. Amos Cady collected 10 rebounds and six assists to go with his five points.

Erick Jimenez led Riverbank with 18 points.

With sole possession of the championship on the line, Ripon Christian ends the regular season Friday at Ripon.