“Wyatt McBeth scored 29 points and Christian Wiggins 24 to lead the Wayzata boys basketball team to an 87-53 win over Edina in the Section 6AAAA semifinals. Isaac Olmstead added 15 points for the Trojans. Wayzata (24-4) plays at top-seeded Hopkins (26-1) for the section title Tuesday at the Royals Activity Center.” via CCX Media.
Tag: Wayzata Basketball
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Image courtesy Wayzata Athletic Department. Fans hoping to secure a seat for the highly anticipated Section 6AAAA boys basketball championship between Wayzata and Hopkins on Tuesday March 11, 2025 are out of luck, as tickets for the game have officially sold out.
The Wayzata Athletic Department confirmed the news Monday, announcing that all available tickets were purchased through GoFan, the official ticketing platform. Attendees are reminded to have their digital tickets ready for entry, ensuring a smooth arrival at the venue.
For those unable to attend in person, there is still a way to catch the action. The game will be streamed live through the Star Tribune at startribune.com/live, allowing fans to tune in and witness two powerhouse programs battle for a trip to the state tournament.
With the demand for tickets exceeding availability, excitement continues to build for what promises to be a thrilling matchup. Hopkins, a perennial contender, faces off against top-seeded Wayzata in a rematch of last year’s section final, with both teams eager to punch their ticket to state.
The Star Tribune’s exclusive streaming partnership ensures that thousands of fans won’t miss a moment of the action. Subscribers can access the game for free, while non-subscribers can take advantage of a $5 special to watch the game and gain full access to the publication’s sports coverage.
As the Trojans and Royals prepare for a showdown, local basketball fans are gearing up for a night of high-stakes competition—whether from the stands or in front of their screens.
For more updates on the game and postseason coverage, visit startribune.com/live.
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Image courtesy Wayzata Girls Basketball Twitter. The Wayzata High School girls basketball program continues to shine, as three standout players have been recognized with prestigious All-State honors for their performances this season.
Senior Sophie Hawkinson earned a coveted All-State selection, while Maren Day and Katie Kelzenberg received Honorable Mention All-State honors, solidifying their place among the top players in Minnesota high school basketball.
Hawkinson, a dynamic guard known for her scoring ability and leadership on the court, played a crucial role in guiding the Trojans through a highly competitive season. Her ability to command the floor, attack the basket, and create opportunities for her teammates made her a key figure in Wayzata’s success.
Day and Kelzenberg also made their mark with impressive contributions. Day, a skilled and versatile player, brought energy on both ends of the floor, showcasing strong ball-handling and defensive skills. Kelzenberg, a powerful presence in the paint, demonstrated her ability to dominate on the boards and finish at the rim, making her an essential force for the Trojans.
Wayzata’s girls basketball program has consistently developed top-tier talent, and this latest recognition reaffirms the team’s strength in the Minnesota basketball landscape. With a tradition of excellence, the Trojans continue to produce athletes ready to compete at the highest level.
As the season comes to a close, these honors serve as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of Hawkinson, Day, and Kelzenberg, whose performances have left a lasting impact on the program.
Congratulations to the Wayzata Trojans and their All-State honorees on a remarkable season!
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“In this week’s CCX Sports Spotlight, Chaz Mootz profiles Wayzata girls basketball senior point guard Sophie Hawkinson. The NDSU women’s basketball commit averaged 20 points per game for the Trojans this season. Three minutes into Wayzata’s home game against Hopkins on February 13th, Hawkinson tore the ACL in her left leg. Despite being sidelined for the remainder of the year, Hawkinson has been a big piece in the Trojans winning the Lake Conference regular season title, which hadn’t happened since 1983. Hawkinson also won a state championship on the Wayzata girls soccer team this past fall.” via CCX Sports.
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The Wayzata Trojans punched their ticket to the Section 6AAAA championship in convincing fashion Friday night, overpowering Edina 87-53 in the semifinals. With the win, the Trojans set up a highly anticipated rematch against Hopkins in Tuesday’s title game—a matchup that had previously sparked controversy.
Wayzata took control early, heading into halftime with a commanding 47-29 lead before closing out the game in dominant fashion. Wyatt McBeth led all scorers with 29 points, while Christian Wiggins added 24. Isaac Olmstead contributed 15 points in the victory. On the Edina side, Billy DeMars finished with 18 points, with Mason Mohs and Vincent Cronin each scoring 11.
Wayzata will now face off against Hopkins, which secured its own dominant semifinal victory, in a game that will decide who advances to the state tournament.
Wayzata’s Request for Venue Change Denied
The upcoming rematch with Hopkins is already drawing attention beyond the basketball court. According to KSTP Sports’ Darren Wolfson, Wayzata administration had requested a venue change for the section championship, but the Region 6AAAA tournament director and officials denied the request after a vote.
“Well, here we are w/ Hopkins + Wayzata up big tonight in section semifinal games. Rematch on course to take place Tues. at Hopkins. Told Wayzata administration pushed for a venue change w/ the Region 6AA manager and tourney director. There was vote and a venue change was denied.”
This means Tuesday’s section final will take place on Hopkins’ home court, despite concerns raised by Wayzata’s administration.
Wolfson also Tweeted, “They’ve had weeks to get a plan in place. I’m not overly bothered by the vote failing. Wayzata is expected to have use of a locker room near their bench, won’t have to cross near fan section. More security will be in place too.”
Tensions Remain After Heated Previous Meeting
The push for a neutral site likely stems from the teams’ last meeting, which ended in controversy. As previously reported by Wayzata.com, video footage of the February matchup went viral, showing a tense confrontation between players and fans in the closing moments. In the aftermath, Wayzata and Hopkins have taken different approaches in handling the situation, with each school working to address concerns raised by their communities.
With high stakes on the line and emotions already running high, Tuesday’s championship game promises to be an intense battle between two of the state’s top programs. Tipoff is set for Tuesday night at Hopkins High School, where the winner will earn a spot in the state tournament.
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“In a seventh consecutive meeting in the Section 6AAAA final, the Hopkins girls basketball team defeated Wayzata 74-60 to win their eleventh straight section title. The Royals (24-5) were down three at halftime, but a quick start to the second half put the Royals in front by seven. Wayzata fought back to tie the game at 52 after a Mallory McBeth three with 7:30 left in the game. In the final seven minutes, the Royals went on a 22-8 run to earn their eleventh straight trip to the state tournament. Jaliyah Diggs scored a game high 20 points. Erma Walker and Lauren Hillesheim each put up 14 and Maliyah White added 11. Allie Berns led Wayzata with 15. The Trojans finish their season with a 23-5 record.” via CCX Media.
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“For a seventh straight season, it will be Wayzata vs. Hopkins girls basketball in the Section 6AAAA final with the winner advancing the state tournament. The Royals have won the previous six meetings, but for the first time in the past seven seasons the Trojans will host this year’s 6AAAA final. Wayzata won both regular season match-ups against Hopkins, defeating the Royals on the road by three and winning at home by six. In the second meeting, the Trojans’ leading scorer Sophie Hawkinson went down with a season-ending injury. That was the second season-ending injury the Trojans have been dealt this year with Kate Amelotte also out for the year after she suffered a leg injury in the soccer season. Despite the injuries, the Trojans rallied together and won their first Lake Conference title in 42 years. Thursday’s Section 6AAAA final is scheduled for 7:00 PM at Wayzata High School.” via CCX Media.
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“The Wayzata girls basketball team got off to a quick 24-5 lead on their way to a 96-25 win over Armstrong in the Section 6AAAA semifinals. Freshman Mallory McBeth led the Trojans in scoring with 18 points while Maren Day, Kaja Nash, Allie Berns and Annika Kieser also scored in double figures. Wayzata (23-4) is the top seed in the section tournament and hosts Hopkins (23-5) Thursday in the section final. The Trojans beat the Royals twice during the regular season. Armstrong finishes the season with a record of 12-16.” via CCX Media.
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March madness isn’t just for college hoops—it’s alive and well in our own backyard as Wayzata High School athletes prepare for an action-packed week of postseason competition.
The excitement kicks off on Tuesday, March 4, when the boys’ basketball team takes the court for the section quarterfinals against Armstrong at Wayzata High School. The Trojans beat Minnetonka last Friday 80-62 and are now 22-4-0 on the season. Wayzata is looking to keep the momentum going and advance deeper into the tournament, with a likely showdown in the Section title game against Hopkins on the horizon.
Also recently, Wayzata basketball standout Christian Wiggins etched his name into the record books on February 25, reaching the 1,000-point milestone in his high school career. The senior guard has been a key offensive force for the Trojans, showcasing his scoring ability with a mix of sharp shooting, strong drives to the basket, and clutch performances. Wiggins’ achievement is a testament to his dedication and hard work over the years, and his leadership will be crucial as Wayzata looks to make a deep playoff run. Fans can expect him to be a difference-maker as the Trojans push forward in the postseason.
Image courtesy Wayzata Basketball via Twitter.
On Thursday, March 6, the girls’ basketball team will battle Hopkins in the section final at home—a rare occasion, as it marks one of the first times in decades that Wayzata has hosted a section championship. Fans know this matchup well—when Wayzata and Hopkins meet, it’s always a battle. With a trip to the state tournament on the line, expect a packed gym and an electric atmosphere.
Wayzata will have to take on the size and skill of the Hopkins squad without senior leader and point guard Sophie Hawkinson, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season after undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery. Fellow Trojan Kate Amelotte has also missed the season with the same injury, leaving Wayzata without two key contributors.
Wayzata enters the game with a 23-4 record, while Hopkins stands at 23-5. Watch for Annika Kieser, Maren Day, Katie Kelzenberg, Allie Berns, Mallory McBeth, Elli Howard, Lindsay Harvey, and a deep roster of Trojans to step up as they take on the Royals with their eyes on a state tournament berth.
Meanwhile, Wayzata’s boys’ swim and dive team will make a splash at the state meet at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center, beginning Thursday and running through Saturday. These dedicated athletes have been putting in countless hours in the pool, and now, they’ll have their shot at state titles.
If the boys’ basketball team wins on Tuesday, they’ll have another game on Friday, March 7, with details yet to be determined. Expect the Trojan faithful to turn out in full force, ready to cheer them on.
It’s a big week for Wayzata athletics, and as always, our community is behind these student-athletes every step of the way. Pack the stands, bring the noise, and let’s support our Trojans as they chase postseason success!
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Garbage Can Thrown Into Wayzata Player and Coach in Post-Game Chaos
The February 13 matchup between the Wayzata Trojans and Hopkins Royals featured two of the top Class 4A teams in Minnesota, with Hopkins escaping with a 77-76 victory. However, the game’s heated conclusion, including a post-game confrontation between coaches, fans storming the court, and a video showing a garbage can being thrown at Wayzata players and coach, has overshadowed the action on the floor. Now, the contrasting responses from both schools are drawing significant attention.
A video from “Corvette Bob” shows a garbage can hitting a Wayzata player and coach.
Game Ends in Controversy, Chaos Follows
Wayzata, led by junior guard Christian Wiggins’ 33-point performance, nearly erased a double-digit deficit in the final minutes. With seconds remaining, senior forward Wyatt McBeth took a contested shot, which did not draw a foul call despite visible contact. The no-call sparked frustration from Wayzata head coach Bryan Schnettler, who engaged in a verbal exchange with the Hopkins coaching staff. Officials assessed offsetting technical fouls on both benches before the game ended.
As Wayzata’s team left the floor without participating in the post-game handshake, Hopkins fans stormed the court with both the fans and the Royals team seeming to follow the Trojans to their locker room. A video later surfaced showing a garbage can being thrown and hitting MacBeth and Schnettler, further adding to the controversy.
Chaz Mootz: ‘Looked like a foul… Hopkins student section follows Wayzata to locker room’
CCX’s Chaz Mootz posted a video that has received almost 700,000 views as of the date of this article showing the ending:
Video courtesy of Chaz Mootz on X.com
Darren Wolfson Calls It a ‘Bleep-Show’
KSTP Channel 5 Sports’ Darren Wolfson, who was in attendance, summed up the game and its aftermath in a pointed tweet:
“Was at Hopkins-Wayzata tonight, 2 elite teams in 4A. Royals won by 1. When these teams meet again for section title, @MSHSL better have its senior-most officials working. Tonight was a bleep-show, result was coaching staffs getting into each other’s faces postgame. Was pathetic.”
Ryan James: ‘Do I Think There Will Be Consequences? Doubtful.’
Shortly after the game, PrepHoops.com’s Ryan James provided a sharp breakdown of the situation, questioning whether accountability would follow for all involved:
“Do I think there will be consequences? For any of this? Doubtful. There should be coaches that likely should have to sit out a game or two – head coaches and assistants – and they likely won’t. There should be a Hopkins player or two suspended for what they did after the game, and they likely won’t. And that Hopkins student group should not be allowed at a game the rest of this year for their actions.”
James had an excellent article summarizing the events:
Wayzata Suspends Schnettler, Emphasizes Sportsmanship
In response, Wayzata Public Schools suspended Schnettler for one game, citing his conduct during the final moments. Athletic Director Meghan Potter released a statement reinforcing the school’s commitment to sportsmanship:
“We are committed to using last Thursday’s game as a learning opportunity to reinforce the importance of composure, respect, and good sportsmanship—both during and after competition, regardless of the outcome.”
Schnettler remained focused on his players and their season, stating in an email to Wayzata.com:
“We are just looking forward to a great rest of the season with our guys!”
Many in the Minnesota basketball community consider Schnettler to be one of the best, if not the best, high school coaches in the state—not just from a player development standpoint, but also for his role in shaping student-athletes in the game of life. His leadership, emphasis on character, and ability to mentor young athletes have earned him widespread respect.
Hopkins Addresses Fan Behavior but Remains Silent on Further Discipline
While Wayzata disciplined its head coach, Hopkins responded differently, focusing on crowd control. The school issued a letter reinforcing expectations for fan behavior, warning that future violations—such as court storming—could lead to ejections or bans from attending games, as reported by Darren Wolfson on X.com
However, Hopkins has not publicly addressed whether any of its players, coaches, or students have faced consequences for their actions.
Athletic Director Jared Ellerson Has Yet to Respond to our inquiry
Hopkins Athletic Director Jared Ellerson has not responded to an email sent mid-day on Wednesday requesting information about:
- Safety measures at future games
- Enforcement of fan behavior policies
- Whether any Hopkins coaches, players, students, or staff have been disciplined
Will There Be More Action Taken?
The differing responses from Wayzata and Hopkins raise questions about accountability. Wayzata took immediate action, while Hopkins has remained silent on potential discipline beyond crowd control. With video evidence surfacing and public scrutiny growing, many are wondering whether additional consequences are forthcoming.
If these teams meet again in the section championship, it won’t just be a battle for a trip to the state tournament—it will be a test of how both programs handle intensity, composure, and sportsmanship on the biggest stage.
The Trojans host East Ridge tonight as Schnettler will be serving his one game suspension.
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