March Madness is upon us, and with bracket reveals imminent, it’s time to find a team to root for beyond your alma mater or geographic loyalty. If you’re looking for a compelling underdog story, allow me to suggest the Saint Louis Billikens men’s basketball team. Based in Missouri – and emphatically not a confused offshoot of Oakland University – the Billikens have a history of surprising runs, and this year’s squad offers plenty of reasons to tune in. While they may not be a household name, Saint Louis is poised to make some noise in the tournament, and here’s why you should consider adding them to your bracket.
The Billikens enter the NCAA Tournament as a nine seed, facing off against Georgia on Thursday night in Buffalo. This marks their first appearance since a first-round loss as a 13 seed in 2019, and a return to the national stage after a period of rebuilding. But don’t let the seeding fool you; this Saint Louis team is capable of making a deep run, and their recent performances demonstrate a resilience and grit that could carry them far.
A Thrilling Finish to the A-10 Tournament
Saint Louis’s path to the tournament wasn’t without its challenges. They entered the Atlantic 10 tournament as the top seed, but had stumbled down the stretch, going 3-3 in their final six regular-season games, including a lopsided 29-point loss to George Mason. However, they found their stride when it mattered most. Their first tournament game against George Washington was a comeback for the ages. Trailing by as many as 21 points after a brutal 28-4 run by the Revolutionaries, the Billikens rallied to secure an 88-81 victory, showcasing a tenacity that defines their play style.
Their semifinal matchup against Dayton was even more dramatic. Saint Louis held the upper hand for much of the game, but a cold spell allowed Dayton to take a slim lead with just five minutes remaining. What followed was a back-and-forth slugfest, with three potential game-winning shots in the final 30 seconds, none of which fell. While they ultimately lost that game, the sheer excitement and competitive spirit on display were a testament to the Billikens’ character. As one observer noted, the game flowed in a way that’s rare and captivating, a testament to the quality of play from both teams. You can see the thrilling finish here:
Robbie Avila: The Player You Need to Understand
At the heart of Saint Louis’s success is senior center Robbie Avila. A transfer from Indiana State, Avila has quickly become a fan favorite, not just for his on-court skills but also for his unique look. He’s a versatile substantial man who can pass, shoot, and score with the best in the country, and his ability to stretch the floor makes him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Avila’s emergence as a key player couldn’t come at a better time, as he’s making his first NCAA Tournament appearance.
A Fast-Paced, Exciting Style of Play
Saint Louis doesn’t just have star power; they play a brand of basketball that’s genuinely fun to watch. They consistently push the pace, taking fewer seconds per possession than almost any other team in the tournament. They also excel at three-point shooting and prioritize getting shots close to the rim, creating a dynamic and balanced offensive attack. Players like Trey Green and Dion Brown complement Avila’s versatility, making them a formidable opponent.
A Competitive First-Round Matchup
Their first-round game against Georgia promises to be a closely contested affair. While Georgia finished with a 10-8 record in the Southeastern Conference, Saint Louis has established itself as a strong mid-major program. The matchup between Saint Louis’s Robbie Avila and Georgia’s Somto Cyril will be one to watch. Statistical analysis from KenPom suggests this game has a high probability of going down to the wire, making it a must-see for tournament fans.
The Saint Louis Billikens offer a compelling narrative, a dynamic playing style, and a star player in Robbie Avila. As they prepare to face Georgia, they represent a team with the potential to surprise and delight fans throughout the tournament. Keep an eye on the Billikens – they might just become your new favorite team this March.
The Billikens and Georgia will tip off Thursday night in Buffalo. Following that game, the winner will advance to face either Michigan or VCU. Stay tuned to time.news for continuing coverage of the NCAA Tournament.
What do you think? Will Saint Louis make a run? Share your predictions in the comments below.
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