Viral Sensation Robbie Avila Poised to Steal Spotlight from Georgia in March Madness

Saint Louis center's unique nicknames and fan-favorite status could turn neutral crowd against Georgia Bulldogs

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:03am

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As the Georgia Bulldogs take on the Saint Louis Billikens in the NCAA Tournament, all eyes will be on viral sensation Robbie Avila. The 6-foot-10 center has drawn a slew of creative nicknames, from "college Jokic" to "Milk Chamberlain", and has emerged as a fan favorite thanks to his impressive play and engaging personality. Avila's presence could help turn what would otherwise be a neutral crowd in Buffalo, New York into one that fancies the Billikens over the Bulldogs.

Why it matters

Avila's popularity and ability to captivate fans could be a major factor in the outcome of the game, as the Bulldogs will likely face a hostile environment despite being the higher-seeded team. Georgia will need to find a way to slow down Avila, who has been a key engine for Saint Louis' elite offense, in order to advance in the tournament.

The details

Avila, who was named the Atlantic 10 Player of the Year, has averaged 12.9 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game this season. His passing and interior presence have helped Saint Louis open the season 24-1, though they have gone 4-4 over their last eight games. Georgia, on the other hand, has won five of their last seven games and will be looking to Somto Cyril to slow down Avila in the middle.

  • The Georgia Bulldogs and Saint Louis Billikens will face off in the NCAA Tournament on March 18, 2026 in Buffalo, New York.

The players

Robbie Avila

A 6-foot-10, 240-pound center for the Saint Louis Billikens who has drawn a slew of creative nicknames and emerged as a fan favorite thanks to his impressive play and engaging personality.

Somto Cyril

The starting center for the Georgia Bulldogs, who will be tasked with trying to slow down Robbie Avila in the middle.

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What’s next

The winner of the Georgia-Saint Louis matchup will advance to the next round of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Robbie Avila's unique personality and fan-favorite status could be a major X-factor in the Georgia-Saint Louis game, potentially turning a neutral crowd in Buffalo against the Bulldogs. Georgia will need to find a way to slow down Avila's impact if they hope to advance in the tournament.