Cal
Scout Report
Standing 6-9 with elite basketball IQ, this Bay Area big man has already locked up his college future while helping lead one of California's most talented high school squads.
Background
Hailing from San Francisco, Pihtovs has developed his craft at Archbishop Riordan, where he's become a cornerstone of a powerhouse program. Playing alongside top-tier talent including Washington-bound Jasir Rencher and San Francisco commit Andrew Hilman, he's been battle-tested against elite competition throughout his high school career. His development through the Bay Area basketball circuit has caught the attention of several high-major programs.
Playing Style
Pihtovs brings a versatile skill set to the center position, combining his impressive 6-9 frame with solid fundamentals and court awareness. He excels at using his size advantage in the paint while showing the ability to step out and contribute from mid-range. His basketball IQ allows him to make smart decisions with the ball and find open teammates when double-teams come. While he continues to add strength to his frame, his footwork and positioning give him an edge against opposing big men.
Recruitment
Despite holding offers from Nevada, San Francisco, and UC Santa Barbara, Pihtovs made his commitment to Cal, staying close to home in the Bay Area. Ranked #173 nationally in the 2026 class, he projects as a program-building piece who can develop into a reliable interior presence at the Pac-12 level. His ceiling continues to rise as he adds physicality to his already solid fundamental base.
Updated Feb 17, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Offers
3
Nevada
UC Santa Barbara