The Middle Lake Avengers played in three tightly contested games and came away winners of the annual Birch Hills Christmas Classic.

The eight team format took place on December 15 and 16, as high school basketball teams continue their pre-Christmas schedule.

On Friday, the Avengers defeated Melfort 85-71 to advance to the semi-final.

There, they knocked off the host Marauders 80-74.

In the championship game, the Avengers took on St. Brieux and were able to squeak out another win, taking the tournament with an 88-82 victory.

St. Brieux defeated Prince Albert Carlton 95-92 in the other semi-final to advance to the final game. They beat Nipawin 114-32 in their opener.