Last night, the Royals rolled to another convincing non-conference victory, defeating the Waconia Wildcats by a score of 111-86.

While the Class 3A Wildcats entered the game with a 10-1 record, they were outmatched by Hopkins from the tip. The Royals got off to a fast start, taking a 33-14 lead eight minutes into the game.

By halftime, Hopkins led 59-31, with Amir Coffey, senior, once again leading the way with 19 points. The Royals’ success continued throughout the game, as they completed their second 111-point performance in the last week.

Coffey finished with 30 points and 13 rebounds. Ishmael El-Amin, junior, scored 17 points for the Royals. Xavier Johnson, senior, also added 16 points.

Prior to the game Monday, Coffey was nominated to participate in the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game along with 325 other players. The game has featured the likes of Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant, among others. Despite his nomination, Coffey knows that in order to be selected to participate in the game, he needs to continue to improve his play.

“It means a lot to be nominated,” Coffey said. “[The game] is something I grew up watching as a kid so if I make it, that would be pretty cool for me. I just need to keep playing well, winning, and putting up numbers.”

As the 33rd-best player in the country, according to ESPN, Coffey has a legitimate chance of being chosen for the game. The final roster for the 2016 McDonald’s All-American game will be announced on Sunday, Jan. 17 during the selection show on ESPNU at 9:30 pm.

Over winter break, Hopkins rolled to three wins in the TCO Holiday Classic at Augsburg College, defeating Eastview, Chanhassen, and Minnehaha by an average of 26 points.

Next up for the Royals is their first home conference game. They will host the Edina Hornets on Jan. 8 at 7 pm.