The spirit of Saint Louis: how a lack of ego is fueling the 24th-ranked Billikens
January 21, 2026
No. 24 Saint Louis is using a selfless approach to one of the best starts in program history. The Billikens improved to 18-1 with a victory over Duquesne that kept them tied for the top spot in the Atlantic 10. Saint Louis is the only team in the country with six players averaging at least 10 points per game. Senior center Robbie Avila says the Billikens are winning because they have prioritized team success over individual accolades. Avila is taking fewer shots and playing fewer minutes than he did a year ago, a sacrifice he says he’s happy to make if it helps the Billikens reach the NCAA tournament.