RIPON, Wis. — Lawrence University (21-5, 13-3 Midwest Conference) defeated Knox College (13-13, 11-5 Midwest Conference), 76-47, at Weiske Gymnasium securing their place in the Midwest Conference Championship game on Saturday versus long time rival Ripon College 

The game commenced with Lawrence gaining an early lead, as Sophie Morey scored a layup assisted by Charlotte Brennan just seconds into the quarter. Olivia Kesti extended the lead with a 3-pointer at 7:58. The Vikings capitalized on fast breaks, with Kate Adams completing a three-point play after a layup and a free throw at 7:24. Knox battled back to tie the game at 14 with 1:21 remaining, but Lawrence regained the lead in the final minute with two free throws from Morey. Morey secured the quarter for the Vikings with a fast-break layup with two seconds left, giving them an 18-15 edge.

Lawrence extended its lead in the second quarter with a strong defensive performance, holding Knox to just 6 points. Brennan contributed significantly with a layup at 9:34 and a series of free throws, ending the quarter with multiple assists. Adams made a notable impact by hitting two 3-pointers, the first at 7:55 and the second with just 37 seconds remaining, to increase Lawrence's advantage. Kesti also played a crucial role by securing several defensive rebounds and blocking an early layup attempt by Nayeli Nidez Acuña. By the end of the quarter, Lawrence led 38-21.

Lawrence extended its lead over Knox in the third quarter with a strong offensive performance. Josie Eager played a pivotal role, hitting a 3-pointer and assisting on multiple baskets, including a fast-break layup by Morey at 6:44. Adams added to the momentum with a steal and assist, while Josie Chose capitalized on opportunities in the paint, scoring two layups. Knox's Bria Medina contributed to her team's effort with a jumper early in the quarter, but Lawrence's defense limited Knox to 11 points, resulting in a 60-32 lead by the end of the quarter.

In the final quarter, Lawrence maintained its lead, finishing with a narrow 16-15 scoring advantage over Knox. Adams contributed a fast-break layup early, bringing the score to 62-36 at the 7:51 mark. Maggie Jarzemsky added to Lawrence's momentum with a layup and subsequent free throw at 4:35, assisted by Bailey Griffis. Kylie Heller and Alena Vondracek also made key contributions down the stretch, each hitting a 3-pointer in the closing minutes to secure a 76-47 victory.