Billikens Look to Make Some Noise in NCAA Tournament

The Saint Louis Billikens enter the NCAA Tournament as a 9-seed, facing 8-seed Georgia in Buffalo. Despite a strong start to the season, the Billikens experienced a shaky final stretch, going 4-4 in their last eight games. Their performance since February 1 ranks them 109th on T-Rank. To succeed, SLU needs to improve their rebounding and defense, especially against Georgia’s fast-paced and athletic team. Key matchups include Robbie Avila against Georgia’s Somto Cyril. Avila’s floor-spacing ability could negate Cyril’s rim protection. The Billikens’ shooting and “spurtability” give them the potential to make noise in March, but defensive improvements are crucial.

Saint Louis has a history in the NCAA Tournament, with six wins in previous appearances. Coach Josh Schertz, in his second season, aims to reward Avila’s loyalty and cap off his career with a strong tournament showing.

Their first-round opponent, Georgia, went 10-8 in conference play and was eliminated in the first round of their conference tournament. They rely heavily on full-court pressure, which SLU needs to counteract by securing stops and rebounding effectively. The Bulldogs have small guards who aren’t great defensively, which could help SLU’s screening and movement be more effective.

This is their 11th appearance in the Division I NCAA Tournament.

Josh Schertz is in his 2nd season leading the program.

Robbie Avila, a senior center, is a versatile player who can pass and shoot.

Do you think the Billikens will make a deep run in the tournament? Let us know in the comments!

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