Saint Louis' Robbie Avila makes 'heartbreaking' admission after March Madness loss

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Saint Louis basketball center Robbie Avila spoke candidly about his feelings after the team's blowout loss to Michigan in the NCAA Tournament's Round of 32. Avila called the end of the Billikens' season a "heartbreaker" but praised his relationship with head coach Josh Schertz, saying "that's my guy for life." Saint Louis entered the tournament as a 9-seed and upset Georgia in the first round before falling to the top-seeded Wolverines.

Why it matters

Saint Louis had a strong 2026 season, making the NCAA Tournament as a 9-seed and upsetting Georgia in the first round. Avila's emotional comments after the loss to Michigan highlight the bittersweet end to the Billikens' campaign, as the talented big man reflects on the team's accomplishments and the relationships built over the course of the year.

The details

Saint Louis kept the game close against Michigan in the first half, but ultimately fell apart in the second half, losing by a final score of 95-72. Avila, who averaged 12.8 points per game and shot over 40% from 3-point range this season, spoke about how much he enjoyed the team's journey to the tournament and the bond he shares with head coach Josh Schertz.

• Saint Louis lost to Michigan in the NCAA Tournament's Round of 32 on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
• Earlier in the tournament, Saint Louis upset Georgia in the Round of 64.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Billikens will now focus on the offseason, with decisions to make regarding recruiting, the transfer portal, and the future of the program.