A strong first half sparked the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings to a 71-62 win over the visiting Medicine Hat College Rattlers.

The Kings held a two point margin (18-16) after the first quarter and then expanded their lead in the next frame, outscoring the Rattlers 19-11 to take a 37-27 advantage at the half.

Antonio Benjamin led the Polytechnic with 10 points at the break. Kings first-year forward Eduardo Crespo had nine points, two rebounds and an assist.

Jordan Biggar powered the Rattlers' offence with 13 points after 20 minutes, which included two-of-three from long range.

Medicine Hat College grabbed a one point edge in the second half (35-34), but the home team picked up the nine point home decision. 

Payton Baltzer was selected the North Star Sports Kings Player of the Game, totaling seven rebounds, six points, four assists and two blocks. 

Jordan Biggar received the award for the Rattlers. He accumulated 22 points, five rebounds, one steal and one block over 37 minutes. Fred Kabore and Tanner Scott had nine points each. 

The Red Deer Polytechnic Kings shot 41.5 per cent from the field, 18.8 per cent from three-point range, and 73.7 per cent from the free-throw line. The Medicine Hat College Rattlers were 38.3 per cent, 39.1 per cent, and 41.2 per cent efficient respectively.