Lakeland comeback too much for RDP

Despite a horrible 3rd quarter, the Lakeland Rustlers were able to come away with their biggest win of the year.

The hosts faced off against the Red Deer Kings, a rematch of an exhibition series in October won by RDP. Both teams needed a win to help improve their playoff seeding for next week.

Lakeland had a great start to the contest, outscoring the Kinds 28-11 in the opening quarter and stayed in front through the second to lead 53-33 at the half. However, the Kings didn't take that lying down, roaring back in the third with a double-digit scoring run to cut the Rustlers lead to 67-65 heading in the final stanza.

After RDP pulled away by two possessions, it looked like the Rustlers were about to suffer their toughest defeat yet. However, several great defensive possession and a couple of clutch shots put Lakeland back in front, which they rode to the 84-78 victory.

Andre McFadden had a game high 32 points, while Favour Ugbah was Player of the Game with 18 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals. Deandre Rowe had 17 points and 7 assists for the Kings.

Lakeland has one final regular season game on Saturday when they host the Olds Broncos, tip off at 8:00 PM. If they win, they are guaranteed a home playoff game next weekend.