The team got off to a sluggish start against Vermillion but soon proved to be too strong for the Ironwomen. Leading 35-16 at the half, the Rams never relented and continued to wreak defensive havoc throughout the second half.

“It was one of the more consistent efforts we’ve had thus far from beginning to end,” says Head Coach David DeWitt. “Our defensive rebounding was much better and I don’t think we yielded a transition basket the entire game.”

The Ram’s defensive pressure forced 32 Vermillion turnovers and limited the Ironwomen to 26 percent shooting percentage and a 71-29 victory for the Golden Rams.

Sophomore guard, Amanda Reh, who scored 16 points, two assists and four steals, paced Anoka-Ramsey offensively. Georgis Morff, Jessica Cichy and Carrie Roline were also big factors in the win over Vermillion. Morff posted 13 points and nine rebounds in 12 minutes of action. Cichy chipped in with 11 points, eight rebounds and five assists, while Carrie Roline added nine points and seven rebounds.

On Saturday, Anoka-Ramsey took on Bismarck State College-an NJCAA Division II powerhouse currently ranked 17th in the nation. After taking a tight halftime lead of 32-29, the Golden Rams were able to open things up the second half en route to a 73-51 win.

“Defensively we were solid again, forcing 32 Bismarck turnovers,” says DeWitt. “I thought we controlled the boards better than in the past.”

Sonja Ellingson, who scored a season high 30 points, including 8 for 11 three-point shots, led Anoka-Ramsey. She also contributed 10 rebounds, three steals and two assists. Amanda Reh added 14 points and three assists, while freshman Kate Bement added another 13 points.

Currently ranked fourth in the nation, the Rams have an overall record of 13-1 as they head into winter break.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College plays again Jan. 2, beginning its division play against Minnesota West Community and Technical College in Worthington, Minn. The next home game is Saturday, Jan. 5 against Rochester Community and Technical College.

View Anoka-Ramsey Community College athletics.