3SSB 17U Palmetto Road Championship Game Recap

Game Elite Claims 17U adidas 3SSB Championship in Instant Classic Over D1 Minnesota
Final Score: Game Elite 62, D1 Minnesota 61
Location: The Arena – 3SSB Palmetto Road Championship

In a game filled with physicality, high-pressure moments, and elite-level execution, Game Elite emerged as the 17U adidas 3SSB Champions with a thrilling 62–61 win over D1 Minnesota.

Game Elite led by as many as 17 in the first half, but D1 Minnesota responded with multiple scoring runs to close each half. The final moments were full of drama: clutch free throws by Colben Landrew with 7 seconds left, followed by a buzzer-beating three from Cedric Tomes that fell just short of forcing OT. From top to bottom, Game Elite showed depth, composure, and championship toughness.

Key Standouts

🏆 Caleb Holt ’26 – Game Elite (Championship MVP)

13 PTS | 6 REB | 2 AST | 1 STL | 5-10 FG

  • The 5-star guard was a steady presence on both ends. Controlled tempo, defended at a high level, and delivered a signature putback dunk late that helped seal the win. His poise and impact showed why he’s considered one of the top players nationally in 2026.

🔥 Colben Landrew ’26 – Game Elite

16 PTS | 9 REB | 2 AST | 2 STL | 4-4 FT

  • A high-motor wing who thrives in big moments. Knocked down both ends of a 1-and-1 to secure the win. Contributed in every phase—scoring, rebounding, and defending.

⚡️ Moustapha Diop ’25 – Game Elite

10 PTS | 7 REB | 3 STL | 4-6 FG

  • Sparked Game Elite’s 12–0 start with timely finishes and disruptive defense. Diop’s energy gave Game Elite early control and helped build their cushion.

🎯 Christian Wiggins ’25 – D1 Minnesota

19 PTS | 4 3PT | 2 AST | 1 STL

  • The Iowa State commit showed his full offensive bag. Hit tough shots, spaced the floor, and led D1MN’s comeback efforts. His ability to deliver in big games continues to elevate his profile.

⚙️ Cedric Tomes ’25 – D1 Minnesota

10 PTS | 3-7 FG | 3-3 FT

  • Shifty, explosive guard who hit tough finishes at the rim and almost forced OT with a buzzer-beater. Plays with confidence and attacks the paint relentlessly.

Team Analytics Highlights

Game Elite:

  • FG: 45.3% (24-53)
  • Rebounding: +16 (31-15)
  • Turnovers: Only 7
  • Scoring: All 7 players contributed

D1 Minnesota:

  • FG: 47.6% (20-42)
  • 3PT: 8-14 (57.1%)
  • Offensive Rebounds: Just 3
  • Late Runs: Closed both halves with scoring bursts

Momentum Breakdown

  • Game Elite opened the game with a 12–0 run (Diop, Holt led the charge)
  • D1 Minnesota responded with an 11–0 run to end the first half (cutting lead to 32–26)
  • Second half: Game Elite maintained control, led by Holt, Landrew, and Savage
  • Final 2 minutes: Wiggins and Anderson hit clutch threes to cut it to 1
  • Landrew hits 2 FTs with 7 seconds left
  • Tomes hits deep 3 at buzzer to end game 62–61

Scope Championship MVP:

Caleb Holt ’26 – Game Elite

  • Stepped up all tournament long in every way. Delivered timely plays on both ends and led with composure and leadership down the stretch. 

Scope All-Championship Team (17U):

  • Caleb Holt ’26 – Game Elite (MVP)
  • Christian Wiggins ’25 – D1 Minnesota
  • Colben Landrew ’26 – Game Elite
  • Moustapha Diop ’25 – Game Elite
  • Nolen Anderson ’26 – D1 Minnesota

Stay tuned for more breakdowns, scouting notes, and top performers from the 3SSB Palmetto Road Championship.