Ripon did not want to take its opponent lightly on Thursday as it prepared for more difficult games ahead.
The top team in the Trans-Valley League staggered visiting Escalon with a 21-6 first quarter and got contributions from every available player in the 59-25 throttling.
“Fast and furious is how we started the game,” Ripon coach Rick Inderbitzin said. “We had numerous players getting after it defensively, causing issues for Escalon. We played great team basketball by diving for loose balls and sacrificing their stats for the good of the team. We really needed to step up and play well heading into our big game with Hughson.”
Third-place Hughson visits Ripon (9-1 TVL, 18-7 overall) tonight.
The Indians had their way with Escalon (2-7, 8-16) on both ends of the floor, holding the Cougars to single digits in every quarter. They were up 34-15 at halftime.
Reina Sausedo got the most out of her limited time, finishing with 15 points, eight rebounds, five steals and three assists. Mikaylah Vaught chimed in with 11 points, as 10 of 12 Indians scored.
Everyone played early and played well,” Inderbitzin said. “It was great to see everyone flying around and playing good defense. There is not much drop-off when we sub.”

Freshman
Mountain House 29, Lathrop 23
MOUNTAIN HOUSE — Kalani Soriano led Lathrop with eight points in the defensive battle. Taimane Lowery contributed with five points.