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Duquesne Today
By the People, for the People
Saint Louis' stunning loss at Rhode Island ends 18-game win streak
The defeat raises real questions about the Billikens' status as a contender
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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The Saint Louis Billikens, who were 24-1 and on an 18-game winning streak, suffered a surprising 81-76 loss to the Rhode Island Rams on Tuesday night. The defeat ended Saint Louis' impressive run and has raised doubts about the team's status as a true contender, especially with a massive showdown against VCU looming on Friday.
Why it matters
Saint Louis had been rolling through the Atlantic 10 conference, looking like a team that had everything figured out. This loss, in which the Billikens trailed for 36 minutes and committed 18 turnovers, has forced a pause and reflection on the team's status and whether the loss was just a bad night or a warning sign about their vulnerabilities.
The details
The Billikens struggled to slow down Rhode Island's rhythm from the opening half, falling behind early and never fully recovering. They started 5-of-9 from the field but then lost control, committing 10 first-half turnovers that helped flip the game. Rhode Island's Jonah Hinton hit 9 three-pointers and scored 29 points to lead the Rams to the upset victory.
- The loss occurred on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
- Saint Louis' next game is a massive showdown at home against VCU on Friday, February 21, 2026, with first place in the Atlantic 10 on the line.
The players
Jonah Hinton
The Rhode Island player who scored 29 points, including 9 three-pointers, to lead the Rams to the upset victory over Saint Louis.
Robbie Avila
A Saint Louis player who had a chance to tie the game late but missed a three-pointer.
Ishan Sharma
A Saint Louis player who also had a chance to tie the game late but missed a three-pointer.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This loss has raised real questions about Saint Louis' status as a true contender, especially with a massive showdown against VCU looming. The Billikens will need to respond quickly to prove they are still the team that won 18 straight games and not the one that struggled with turnovers and rhythm against Rhode Island.
