Ripon Christian was able to jump out early on Escalon and cruise, setting up a semifinal contest with Hilmar High after its 61-42 win over the Cougars in the first round of the Ripon Christian Tournament Tuesday.

Mikaela Alger had a 17 point, five rebound outing, while teammate Teagan Manus chipped in with 13 and pulled down eight boards. Kaylie Colyn added nine points and dished out six assists in the win.

“We played very well,” Ripon Christian head coach Ed Mulder said. “Our defense was a little shaky, but we played with intensity and emotion, so I was pleased.”

The Knights (5-2) will meet up Hilmar who knocked off Central Catholic in its tournament opener. The tournament’s other semifinal matchup has Oakdale meeting up with Hughson after wins over Delhi and Big Valley Christian, respectively.

Ripon Christian’s game is scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. tip-off.

West Coast Jamboree

Ripon 36, Archer 34

Ripon and Archer did not light up the scoreboard by any means, but the two clubs combined to put together an impressive opening to their West Coast Jamboree opener in Ripon’s two-point win.

Kelsey Alexander led the way with 12 points and teammate Ruth Water chipped in with 11. Waters fell victim to foul trouble, fouling out with just under three minutes remaining, forcing other Indians to fill the void.

“Our team really stepped up big time when we lost Ruth there at the end,” Ripon head coach George Contente said. “It was nice to see we were able to finish the game without one of our more experienced players.”

Ripon will continue its tournament run at 5:30 p.m. when they play Herritage High.