San Diego, CA—Las Vegas natives Taj DeGourville and Pharaoh Compton made their college basketball debuts for San Diego State University in an exhibition victory over Cal State San Marcos on Wednesday night. The game ended with a resounding 80-39 score, a clear testament to the potential of these two freshmen. Both demonstrated glimpses of the talent and skill that have made them celebrated athletes in Nevada, leaving their mark in their first game as Aztecs.

Pharaoh Compton: Power and Precision

Compton, a 2024 graduate of Arbor View High School, made an immediate impact, contributing 10 points on an efficient 5-for-6 shooting performance and adding three rebounds. Known as the top recruit from Nevada in his graduating year, Compton brought a blend of power and precision to the court, attributes that helped him excel as a high school athlete. In his senior year, he averaged an impressive 19.7 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game, leading Arbor View to the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) 5A state semifinals. His dominance on the floor and shot-blocking ability earned him a place on Nevada Preps’ All-Southern Nevada boys basketball team.

These qualities have quickly translated to his college game, and his performance in the exhibition matchup suggests a promising season ahead for the freshman forward, who chose SDSU over multiple powerhouse programs, including LSU, Iowa, and Arizona State.

Taj DeGourville: A Championship Pedigree

Taj DeGourville, who also grew up in Las Vegas, brings a championship pedigree from his time at Durango High School. As a junior, DeGourville was instrumental in leading Durango to the 5A Nevada state championship, a crowning achievement that also earned him first-team All-Southern Nevada honors. In the championship game, he led all scorers with 16 points, showcasing his scoring ability and leadership on the court.

In his first SDSU appearance, DeGourville played 25 minutes, adding seven points and three rebounds to the Aztecs’ victory. While the exhibition game marked the start of his college journey, DeGourville’s high school legacy continues to shine through his dedication and competitive spirit on the court.

Vegas Elite: EYBL Standouts

Both Compton and DeGourville were central to the success of the Vegas Elite 17U basketball team in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) circuit. Leading the team to the Peach Jam Championship game in 2023, the pair proved they could compete at a high level against top-tier talent, finishing as runners-up in the prestigious tournament. Their combined leadership, skill, and teamwork on the Vegas Elite squad underscore their potential to become valuable contributors to SDSU’s program.

With roots deeply embedded in Las Vegas basketball, Taj DeGourville and Pharaoh Compton are now forging new paths at SDSU. Both athletes have carried the legacy of their high school achievements and EYBL experience into their college careers, embodying the competitive spirit and talent nurtured in the Nevada basketball community. Their exhibition debuts signal the beginning of promising collegiate careers, as they aim to make their mark on the court for San Diego State.