Robbie Avila has emerged as one of college basketball’s most captivating and unconventional stars. With his distinctive goggles, remarkable passing vision, and old-school post moves, Avila has not only become a fan favorite but also a potent force on the court, defying traditional big-man archetypes.
His journey from an unheralded recruit to a national sensation at Indiana State, and now a key player for Saint Louis, exemplifies the evolving landscape of college basketball and the power of skill over pure athleticism.
The Journey: From Oak Forest to National Recognition
Robbie Avila’s basketball journey began in Oak Forest, Illinois, where he honed his skills. Despite his clear talent and unique approach to the game, he was not a highly sought-after recruit by major Division I programs.
Many overlooked him due to his perceived lack of elite athleticism, a common emphasis in modern recruiting. However, Indiana State’s then-head coach Josh Schertz saw something different. He recognized Avila’s immense potential, particularly his skill set and basketball intelligence, which he believed would thrive in his system.
Indiana State: The Rise of “Cream Abdul-Jabbar”
Avila committed to Indiana State, where he quickly became an integral part of Coach Schertz’s offensive scheme. His freshman year in 2022-23 saw him average 10.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, starting in 28 contests. This laid the foundation for a breakout sophomore campaign in 2023-24 that thrust him into the national spotlight.
During the 2023-24 season, Avila became a viral sensation. His unique blend of post-play, three-point shooting, and passing from the high post drew comparisons to NBA legends like Nikola Jokic and Kevin Love, leading to the proliferation of his now-famous nicknames.
He averaged an impressive 17.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, leading the Sycamores to a stellar 32-7 record and a deep run to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) Finals. He was named First-Team All-Missouri Valley Conference, solidifying his status as one of the most impactful players in mid-major basketball.
His goggles, worn since third grade due to vision issues, became an iconic part of his persona. In an interview with On3.com, Avila disclosed that his favorite nickname was “Rob Wave,” inspired by the rapper Rod Wave, but he expressed happiness that the attention also included his teammates in the spotlight.
The Transfer Portal and Saint Louis
Following the 2023-24 season, a significant development occurred: Indiana State head coach Josh Schertz accepted the head coaching position at Saint Louis University. Subsequently, Robbie Avila, along with all five of Indiana State’s starters, entered the NCAA transfer portal. This move was widely anticipated, as Avila’s strong relationship with Coach Schertz and his system made a reunion highly probable.
As anticipated, Robbie Avila officially transferred to Saint Louis for the 2024-25 season, continuing his collaboration with Coach Schertz. This transition marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference, a step up in competition from the Missouri Valley Conference.
Playing Style: A Masterclass in Skill and Vision
Robbie Avila’s playing style is a refreshing departure from the athletic dominance often seen in modern basketball. He is a testament to the fact that skill, intelligence, and unique physical tools can be just as effective, if not more so, than raw athleticism.
Offensive Arsenal
Avila’s offensive game is remarkably well-rounded for a big man:
Elite Passer: This is arguably his most defining trait. Avila possesses exceptional court vision and an uncanny ability to facilitate offense from various spots on the floor – the high post, the low post, and even leading the break in transition.
He consistently finds cutting teammates, shooters on the perimeter, and delivers precise, timely passes. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 4.0 assists per game, leading all centers in NCAA Division I, a truly remarkable statistic that underscores his “College Jokic” moniker.
Post-Up Maestro: Despite his lack of explosive leaping ability, Avila is highly effective in the post. He utilizes a sophisticated array of fakes, spins, and drop steps, leveraging his strength and soft touch around the rim. He’s an exceptionally quick finisher with both hands, converting a high percentage of his attempts inside the lane (e.g., 69% on two-point field goals in 2024-25).
Three-Point Threat: Avila is a legitimate stretch big, capable of consistently knocking down three-pointers. He’s comfortable in pick-and-pop situations and effectively spaces the floor. In the 2024-25 season, he made 1.8 three-pointers per game, leading all Division I centers, while shooting an impressive 35.9% from beyond the arc.
This ability forces opposing bigs to guard him on the perimeter, opening up driving lanes and post opportunities for his teammates.
High Basketball IQ: Avila’s offensive game is built on smart decision-making. He rarely forces shots, preferring to make the right play. He understands defensive rotations and exploits mismatches with precision. His ability to read close-outs and attack them with crafty dribbles further adds to his offensive versatility.
Defensive Considerations
While Avila’s offensive prowess is undeniable, his defensive game presents a different profile. He is not a rim protector in the traditional sense, lacking the elite verticality or lateral quickness to consistently block shots or switch onto smaller guards. His block rate (0.8 blocks per game in 2024-25) and steal rate (1.2 steals per game) are not indicative of an elite defensive anchor.
However, his high basketball IQ and awareness help him compensate for some athletic limitations. He understands positioning, rebounds his area effectively (6.9 rebounds per game in 2024-25), and can disrupt passing lanes with his length. While his defensive shortcomings might be a point of concern for NBA scouts, his offensive impact often outweighs these limitations at the collegiate level.
Recent Trends and the 2024-25 Season
The 2024-25 college basketball season has seen Robbie Avila continue to thrive in his new environment at Saint Louis under Coach Josh Schertz. His transition to the Atlantic 10 Conference has been seamless, further solidifying his status as a premier talent.
Notably, Avila was one of only five players in NCAA Division I to average at least 17.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. His ability to lead all centers in both assists and three-pointers made per game (1.8) highlights his truly unique skill set in the modern game. These statistics underscore his versatility and offensive gravity.
Awards and Recognition (2024-25 Season)
Robbie Avila’s impressive performance in 2024-25 has earned him significant accolades:
Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team: A testament to his consistent high-level play in a competitive conference.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award Top 10 Candidate: This prestigious award recognizes the top center in men’s college basketball, further solidifying his national recognition.
Team Performance
While Saint Louis did not make the NCAA Tournament in the 2024-25 season, finishing with a 19-14 overall record and an 11-7 mark in the Atlantic 10, Avila’s individual performance remained a bright spot.
The team’s loss to Loyola Chicago in the Atlantic 10 tournament marked the end of their NCAA Tournament hopes. Despite this, Avila has publicly committed to returning to Saint Louis for the 2025-26 season, stating “100% I’ll be back,” signaling his dedication to the program and his continued development under Coach Schertz.
NIL Deals
Robbie Avila’s viral fame and on-court success have naturally translated into Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. As of 2025, he has secured several notable NIL deals, including:
Chicago White Sox: Joining their “CHISOX Athlete NIL roster” in both 2024 and 2025. This regional partnership leverages his Illinois roots and growing popularity.
The NIL Store: Participating in their “Hometown Hero” high school jersey collection, showcasing his appeal to a younger demographic.
Bommarito Automotive Group: Another regional partnership, common for prominent college athletes.
Billiken Victory Fund: The official NIL collective for Saint Louis University, aimed at supporting student-athletes.
Crossroad of Champions (Indiana State collective): During his time at Indiana State, he was part of their NIL efforts, reportedly earning around $30,000 in 2023-24.
These deals demonstrate his marketability and the increasing financial opportunities available to college athletes, allowing them to benefit from their on-court success and public profile.
Real-Life Examples and Broader Impact
Robbie Avila’s story resonates beyond his individual statistics. He represents a significant trend in basketball: the increasing value of skilled, versatile big men who can shoot, pass, and handle the ball. The NBA’s embrace of players like Nikola Jokic has trickled down to the college game, demonstrating that traditional notions of what a big man “should” be are evolving.
His rise has brought increased attention to mid-major programs and players who might otherwise be overlooked. Indiana State, a program that hadn’t seen this level of national attention since the Larry Bird era, benefited immensely from Avila’s presence. His compelling narrative, combined with his unique playing style, made Sycamore games must-watch events for many college basketball fans.
Furthermore, Avila’s journey serves as an inspiration for athletes who may not possess elite physical gifts. It emphasizes that dedication to skill development, high basketball IQ, and finding the right fit can lead to tremendous success. He proves that basketball is a game of skill, thought, and feel, not just athleticism.
NBA Draft Prospects: An Intriguing Case
While Robbie Avila is confirmed to return to Saint Louis for the 2025-26 season, his long-term professional prospects, particularly for the NBA, are a constant topic of discussion. He is currently eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Strengths for NBA Evaluation:
Passing: His elite passing vision for a big man is an NBA-level skill. Teams are increasingly looking for centers who can initiate offense and make plays.
Shooting: His ability to stretch the floor with consistent three-point shooting is highly coveted in the modern NBA.
Basketball IQ: His understanding of the game, decision-making, and ability to process defenses are all significant assets.
Post Game: While a dying art in some respects, his refined post moves could be a valuable tool for punishing mismatches at the next level.
Size and Strength: He possesses good size and strength to hold his own against other bigs.
Weaknesses for NBA Evaluation:
Athleticism: This remains the primary concern. His lack of vertical pop, straight-line speed, and lateral quickness are often cited as potential hindrances against elite NBA athletes.
Defensive Versatility: His ability to guard multiple positions or consistently protect the rim at the NBA level is questionable. This could limit his minutes against fast, athletic opponents.
Below-the-Rim Finishing: While efficient, his lack of dunks and reliance on touch shots raise questions about his ability to finish over taller, more athletic NBA defenders.
FAQ
Why does Robbie Avila wear goggles?
Robbie Avila wears protective goggles on the court due to a vision issue that has required him to wear them since he was in third grade. They have become an iconic part of his on-court persona.
Which team does Robbie Avila play for in the 2024-25 season?
As of the 2024-25 season, Robbie Avila plays college basketball for the Saint Louis Billikens in the Atlantic 10 Conference. He transferred there from Indiana State, following his former head coach, Josh Schertz.
What are Robbie Avila’s main strengths as a basketball player?
Robbie Avila’s main strengths include his exceptional passing vision, highly refined post-up game with excellent footwork, consistent three-point shooting, and a very high basketball IQ. He is considered one of the best passing big men in college basketball.
What are Robbie Avila’s NBA draft prospects?
Robbie Avila is eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft. While his elite skill set (passing, shooting, post-play) is appealing, his primary concern for NBA scouts is his lack of elite athleticism, particularly his verticality and lateral quickness. He is often projected as a potential late second-round pick or an undrafted free agent, with teams valuing his unique offensive package.
Final Thoughts
Robbie Avila’s journey in college basketball is a compelling narrative of how unique talent and unwavering dedication can lead to widespread recognition. He has successfully carved out a niche for himself by prioritizing fundamental skills, exceptional court vision, and a nuanced understanding of the game over sheer athleticism. His nicknames, goggles, and distinctive playing style have made him a cult hero, attracting a broad audience to the college game.
As he continues his career at Saint Louis, Avila remains a fascinating player to watch. His statistical output in the 2024-25 season confirms his adaptability and continued growth, solidifying his position as one of the most impactful big men in the NCAA.
While questions about his NBA future persist due to athletic concerns, his undeniable offensive skill set and high basketball IQ make him an intriguing prospect. Regardless of his professional path, Robbie Avila has already left an indelible mark on college basketball, proving that sometimes, the most effective players are those who dare to be different.
He embodies the evolving nature of the sport, where intellect and refined technique can triumph, captivating audiences and inspiring a new generation of players to embrace their own unique strengths.
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