In Las Vegas, basketball isn’t just a sport—it’s a rite of passage. And if you played here—if you ended your high school career under the desert sun—then we owe it to you to tell your story. You’re part of this lineage. You’re part of this movement.

Pharaoh Compton didn’t just pass through Vegas—he left his fingerprints on its hardwood. Originally from Chicago, Compton made his way west, ultimately calling the Las Vegas basketball circuit home. He started at Spring Valley and wrapped up his high school journey at Arbor View High School, where the lights burned a little brighter, the expectations stood a little taller, and his game elevated in lockstep.

Over the last few years, Las Vegas has transformed into a hotbed of high school hoops—an undeniable launchpad for college-bound talent and rising stars. Call it what it is: The Mecca of the West. As major college tournaments and national showcases plant their flags in the city, it’s not just about casinos and conventions anymore. It’s about clips, competition, and credentials.

And right in the middle of it all? Pharaoh Compton.

The Desert’s Crown Jewel

At 6’7″, 220 pounds, Compton was a force for Arbor View. He was relentless, athletic, and decisive—averaging 19.7 points, 9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks during his senior year. That production didn’t just put up numbers—it translated into results. The Aggies surged into the 5A state semifinals, with Compton’s name etched in every scouting report and his fingerprints all over the paint.

He was more than a stat line. He was a presence. A wall. A weapon. His dominance led him to be crowned the No. 1 recruit in Nevada’s 2024 class and landed him at San Diego State—their first Top-100 signee since 2005.

But even in college, the transition from prep to production didn’t take long.

Freshman Year in the Mountain West

Compton’s first year with the Aztecs was a quiet storm: 30 games off the bench, averaging 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in just over 13 minutes per outing. He shot an absurd 64.5% from the field—nearly half of those buckets coming off dunks. He wasn’t just converting—he was commanding the rim with authority.

He picked up back-to-back Mountain West Freshman of the Week honors in December and finished among the conference leaders in multiple freshman categories. His hustle stats? Undeniable. His motor? Unquestioned.

In games where he secured at least three rebounds, the Aztecs went 12-4. When he was engaged, the team responded. His best performances weren’t just padded in blowouts—they came against teams like Houston and Nevada, where he dropped double figures and changed momentum plays with highlight dunks and timely blocks.

Vegas raised him. SDSU polished him. But his ceiling? That’s still unfolding.

📊 Pharaoh Compton – Sophomore Season Scouting Report (2025–26)

Name: Pharaoh Compton
Height/Weight: 6’7” | 220 lbs
Position: PF / Small-Ball 5
College: San Diego State University
Class: Sophomore
Hometown: Chicago, IL (by way of Las Vegas, NV)

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⭐️ Strengths

• Elite Finisher: Converts efficiently at the rim (64.5 FG%), thrives in dunker spots, transition, and PnR as a roll man. Nearly half of made baskets in freshman year were dunks.
• Defensive Upside: Long arms, active hands, and natural timing. Averaged 3.6 blocks in HS and flashed multi-block games in college.
• Motor & Hustle: Plays with consistent energy. Always around the ball on both ends—particularly strong on offensive boards.
• Versatility: Capable of switching onto smaller wings defensively and holding his own. Doesn’t shy away from contact.
• Impact in Limited Minutes: With just 13.3 minutes/game as a freshman, his per-40 production suggests untapped potential if given more floor time.

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📉 Areas for Improvement

• Free Throw Shooting: Struggled from the line (38%). Needs consistent shooting reps to avoid becoming a late-game liability.
• Offensive Skill Development: Limited touch beyond the paint. Developing a face-up game or midrange shot would stretch defenses.
• Decision Making: Only 13 assists in 30 games. Needs to grow as a passer and short-roll playmaker.
• Foul Management: Physical style leads to cheap fouls. Needs better control and awareness defending in space.

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🔍 Outlook for Sophomore Season

With a year under his belt and confidence surging, Compton enters his sophomore season poised to take a leap. Expect an uptick in minutes and usage. The Aztecs will rely on his energy, paint presence, and ability to change games with momentum-shifting plays.

Projected as a breakout candidate in the Mountain West, Pharaoh’s ability to improve as a shooter and decision-maker will be key to unlocking his next-level potential. He has NBA athleticism and a growing frame. If the skill development catches up, we’re talking about a legitimate two-way contributor at the next level.

He’s not just playing in the lights anymore. He’s becoming one.