Georgia Looks to Avoid First Round Upset Against Saint Louis

Bulldogs must limit offensive rebounds, contain Billikens' scoring runs, and start fast to advance in NCAA Tournament

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Georgia Bulldogs are set to face the Saint Louis Billikens in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. After a disappointing first-round exit last year, Georgia must address three key areas to avoid another early tournament loss: preventing Saint Louis' offensive rebounds, limiting the Billikens' scoring runs, and getting off to a faster start in the first half.

Why it matters

Georgia is looking to build on its second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance and make a deeper run this year. However, Saint Louis poses a tough challenge, ranking 10th nationally in points per game and 2nd in three-point percentage. Georgia must shore up its defensive weaknesses from last year's tournament loss to have a chance of advancing.

The details

To beat Saint Louis, Georgia must first limit the Billikens' second-chance opportunities. Saint Louis ranks 240th nationally in offensive rebounds per game, so the Bulldogs need to box out and secure defensive boards. Secondly, Georgia has to contain Saint Louis' potent offense and prevent the Billikens from going on scoring runs. The Bulldogs will need to maintain stability on their own offense to keep pace. Finally, Georgia cannot afford another slow start like last year's tournament losses to Ole Miss and Gonzaga. Getting off to a quicker first-half start will be crucial to the Bulldogs' chances.

  • The Georgia vs. Saint Louis game is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2026 at 9:45 PM ET in Buffalo, New York.

The players

Mike White

The head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs basketball team.

Saint Louis Billikens

The men's basketball team from Saint Louis University, who will be facing Georgia in the NCAA Tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of the Georgia vs. Saint Louis game will advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament to face the winner of the Gonzaga vs. UMass game.

The takeaway

Georgia's early tournament exits the past two years have shown the team's vulnerabilities, but this year's squad has the talent to make a deeper run. By addressing their defensive lapses, limiting the Billikens' scoring, and getting off to a fast start, the Bulldogs can overcome Saint Louis and keep their tournament hopes alive.