Riordan boys craft a moment to remember in CCS Open title game

Riordan's senior tandem of Andrew Hilman and JP Pihtovs combined on the signature play of the Crusaders' 73-51 defeat of St. Ignatius.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Riordan boys basketball team defeated St. Ignatius 73-51 in the Central Coast Section Open Division championship game on Friday night. The game featured a highlight-reel play from Riordan's senior duo of Andrew Hilman and JP Pihtovs, who combined for a spectacular alley-oop dunk in the closing minutes. Riordan has now won three straight Open Division titles and four of the past five.

Why it matters

Riordan's victory and the memorable play showcase the program's continued dominance in the CCS, as they maintain their status as one of the top high school basketball teams in the Bay Area. The win also marks the end of the high school careers for Hilman and Pihtovs, who are both headed to play for the University of San Francisco next season.

The details

With 3:40 remaining in the game and Riordan leading comfortably, Hilman led a 2-on-1 fastbreak and executed a highlight-worthy pass, putting the ball between his legs from left to right before lofting a perfect alley-oop lob for Pihtovs, who threw down a ferocious dunk. The play capped off a strong performance from the two seniors, as Pihtovs finished with 17 points, 5 blocks and 7 rebounds, while Hilman had 14 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists.

  • Riordan's highlight-reel play occurred with 3:40 remaining in the game.

The players

Andrew Hilman

Riordan's senior point guard who is headed to play at the University of San Francisco next season.

JP Pihtovs

Riordan's senior forward who is also signed to play at the University of San Francisco next year.

Joey Curtin

Riordan's head coach, who praised the play as a 'snapshot of their career' with the Crusaders.

St. Ignatius

The opponent that Riordan defeated in the CCS Open Division championship game.

Sylas Garcia

A Riordan player who was pictured celebrating with his teammates after the win.

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What they’re saying

“I've practiced it, but I wasn't planning on doing it. It just kind of happened. It couldn't have been better.”

— Andrew Hilman, Riordan senior point guard (San Francisco Chronicle)

“I couldn't believe he did it. He doesn't normally do that stuff but I love that he did. I just had to make sure I finished it.”

— JP Pihtovs, Riordan senior forward (San Francisco Chronicle)

“The dynasty is back. And that play was amazing. It was a snapshot of their career here.”

— Joey Curtin, Riordan head coach (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

Riordan's victory and the highlight-reel play from Hilman and Pihtovs showcase the program's continued excellence and dominance in the CCS, as they maintain their status as one of the top high school basketball teams in the Bay Area. The win also marks the end of the high school careers for the two seniors, who will look to continue their success at the college level next season.