Saint Louis' Robbie Avila gets standing ovation after exiting Michigan game

The 6-foot-10 center was honored for his college career with the Billikens

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:25pm

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Robbie Avila, the star center for Saint Louis, received a standing ovation from his teammates and fans as he exited the court for the final time in his college career after the Billikens' 95-72 loss to Michigan in the NCAA Tournament. Avila, the Atlantic 10 Player of the Year and a former Indiana State player, was praised for his impact on the largely forgotten Saint Louis and Indiana State programs during his four-year college career.

Why it matters

Avila's story stands out in an era where many college basketball players use mid-major programs as springboards to more lucrative NIL deals and opportunities at bigger schools. Avila chose to stay loyal to Saint Louis and Indiana State, championing the 'little guys' and making a substantial impact on two lesser-known programs.

The details

Avila, a 6-foot-10 center from Oak Forest, Illinois, had a notable college career despite not putting up eye-popping numbers or leading his teams on deep NCAA Tournament runs. His efforts and leadership were recognized by his teammates and fans as he left the court for the final time after Saint Louis' loss to Michigan in the tournament.

  • Avila exited the game on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Robbie Avila

A 6-foot-10 center who was the Atlantic 10 Player of the Year and spent four years playing for the Saint Louis Billikens after transferring from Indiana State.

Michigan

The opposing team that defeated Saint Louis 95-72 in the NCAA Tournament game where Avila received a standing ovation.

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The takeaway

Avila's story serves as an inspiring example of a college athlete who chose to stay loyal to his mid-major programs and make a lasting impact, rather than using them as a springboard to more high-profile opportunities. His standing ovation was a well-deserved recognition of his commitment and contributions to the Saint Louis and Indiana State basketball programs.