Robbie Avila – Saint Louis NIL Deals, Net Worth, Player Information: Insights on Earnings and Career Highlights
Robbie Avila has really carved out a niche for himself as a basketball player at Saint Louis University, catching eyes with his on-court talent and fresh NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. After a standout stint with the Indiana State Sycamores, Avila decided to take his game to the Saint Louis Billikens.
His size, court sense, and ability to shoot from distance just keep him in the conversation.
Thanks to recent rule changes, NIL deals have shaken up how college athletes like Avila can actually make money. Fans have watched Avila team up with different partners, building his brand and growing his net worth through these new opportunities.
He’s teamed up with companies like The NIL Store to get his own branded apparel out there, which really boosts his presence off the court.
Avila’s development as a player, along with his new financial options, makes him a pretty interesting case in the college basketball world right now.
Want to dive deeper into his move to Saint Louis, his NIL journey, and what might be next for him as both an athlete and a brand? Check out Saint Louis University.
Contents
- 1 Early Life and High School Career
- 2 College Basketball Journey
- 3 NIL Deals and Opportunities
- 4 Statistical Highlights and Awards
- 5 Team Success and Tournament Appearances
- 6 Conference Accolades and Honors
- 7 Transfer Portal and Saint Louis Move
- 8 Personal Branding and Athlete Image
- 9 Injuries and Comebacks
Early Life and High School Career
Robbie Avila’s early years laid the groundwork for his future in college basketball.
His time at Oak Forest High School and strong ties to his hometown shaped his drive and growth.
Oak Forest High School Achievements
Robbie Avila played hoops at Oak Forest High School in Illinois and quickly stood out as one of the state’s top players.
People noticed his scoring and defensive skills throughout his high school run.
His senior year was something else: he put up 22.5 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game.
Those numbers put him right up there with Illinois’ best in his class.
Avila built a reputation for his tough post game, reliable mid-range shot, and ability to block shots.
Colleges started paying attention, and he earned plenty of praise in the Chicago basketball scene.
Season Stats at Oak Forest High School (Senior Year):
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Points/Game | 22.5 |
| Rebounds/Game | 11.3 |
| Blocks/Game | 3.6 |
Avila’s stats really show how much he impacted both ends of the floor.
Scouts and coaches kept pointing out his steady play and strong work ethic, which helped Oak Forest stay competitive in regional games.
Oak Forest, Illinois Roots
Avila grew up in Oak Forest, a suburb just outside of Chicago.
The community there is crazy about local sports, especially basketball and baseball.
Robbie’s family and neighbors played a big part in his journey, cheering him on every step of the way.
In Oak Forest, sports culture is tight-knit, and Avila’s name became familiar among local fans.
He stayed close to home by attending Oak Forest High School and often helped out at youth basketball camps and community events.
That supportive environment gave him a real sense of belonging and pride in representing his hometown.
Young athletes in Oak Forest followed his path to college basketball closely.
All-Time Leading Scorer
Avila kept raising the bar at Oak Forest as he moved through high school.
He eventually became the school’s all-time leading scorer, breaking records that had stood for ages.
This milestone landed him in the school’s history books and made him a role model for younger players.
His scoring came from a mix of post moves, jumpers, and aggressive drives.
Coaches worked on his versatility, and his size gave him a clear edge against most opponents.
That scoring record just proves how consistent he was year after year.
When he broke the record, Oak Forest celebrated big time, with teammates and coaches giving him credit for all the work he put in.
His scoring total still stands as a point of pride in the community.
First Pitch and Other Interests
Robbie Avila didn’t just stick to basketball.
He got picked as a Chisox Athlete and threw out a ceremonial first pitch for the Chicago White Sox.
That moment showed how much respect he earned in different sports circles.
Basketball was always his main thing, but getting to throw out the first pitch highlighted his Chicago roots and the love he got from local fans.
Off the court, Avila liked staying connected to the wider sports world and often showed up at community games and events.
Those experiences gave him confidence and helped him handle the spotlight, which comes in handy with all the attention college basketball brings.
His competitive spirit, whether in basketball or something else, really shows how dedicated he is as an athlete.
College Basketball Journey
Robbie Avila’s college basketball story started with standout seasons at Indiana State, then a transfer to Saint Louis University, and a chance to play under Coach Josh Schertz.
His growth, unique playing style, and memorable nicknames have made him one of the more recognizable faces in college hoops.
Indiana State Sycamores Career
Robbie Avila made an immediate splash with the Indiana State Sycamores.
Standing 6-10, he drew attention for his mix of size and skill.
During his sophomore year, he averaged 17.5 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, helping Indiana State finish 28-6.
He played a big role in their Missouri Valley Conference regular season title and NIT run.
| Season | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 17.5 | 6.6 | 4.0 |
Avila’s ball-handling, shooting, and passing made him essential for the Sycamores.
He earned first team all-conference honors for his performance.
Saint Louis University Transition
After two seasons with Indiana State, Avila transferred to Saint Louis University in April 2024.
He wanted new challenges and a chance to keep improving.
He joined the Saint Louis Billikens, bringing both skill and experience to their lineup.
His move made headlines, since he followed his former coach Josh Schertz to Saint Louis.
The Billikens saw him as a key piece moving forward, counting on his versatility and high basketball IQ.
Fans and analysts expect Avila to play a huge role in the Atlantic 10 conference.
Coach Schertz Influence
Josh Schertz has been a big influence on Avila’s college journey.
Schertz first recruited him to Indiana State, where Avila developed into one of the top big men in the Missouri Valley Conference.
When Schertz took the head coaching job at Saint Louis, Avila decided to follow.
Their strong coach-player bond made the transition smoother and set clear expectations for Avila’s new role.
Schertz’s coaching style, which emphasizes player growth and creative offense, fits Avila’s strengths perfectly.
That continuity has kept Avila motivated and comfortable through every step.
Playing Style and Nicknames
Robbie Avila stands out for his unique style—he’s got skill, vision, and great basketball instincts.
He can shoot from the perimeter, make smart passes, and handle the ball surprisingly well for his size.
Fans and teammates have come up with nicknames like “Cream Abdul-Jabbar,” “Larry Blurred,” and “Larry Nerd.”
These names show his blend of old-school big man skills with a modern, agile twist.
Avila’s style really separates him from most college centers.
He stretches the floor and can direct the offense, creating matchup headaches for opponents and giving the Billikens a valuable weapon.
NIL Deals and Opportunities
Robbie Avila’s move to Saint Louis opened up a whole new world of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.
His rising profile means more chances for big brand partnerships and local support through school platforms and Saint Louis businesses.
Major NIL Partnerships
Avila’s strong play has made national brands take notice.
While nobody’s sharing exact numbers, his high-profile moments—like leading Indiana State to a 28-6 record—have turned him into a marketable figure in college hoops.
His big following and unique style just boost his value to sponsors.
Some say he’s on the radar for major national companies, especially those looking to connect with Saint Louis University fans.
Brands in apparel and sports nutrition seem especially interested in players like Avila, who bring both game and personality.
The Bommarito Automotive Group has a reputation for supporting athletic NIL efforts in St. Louis.
Players like Avila often get considered for these partnerships, which link student-athletes with local car dealerships and service providers.
Here’s a quick table showing the types of major partnerships athletes like Avila might land:
| Sponsor Type | Example Brands | Typical NIL Value |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Apparel | Nike, Adidas | $10,000-$50,000 |
| Auto Dealership | Bommarito Automotive | $5,000-$25,000 |
| Food/Beverage | Gatorade, Chipotle | $2,000-$15,000 |
Sponsorship Impact
Saint Louis University supports NIL deals with compliance officers and legal help, so athletes can handle contracts and protect their eligibility.
This setup helps Avila secure deals more easily.
Sponsorships give athletes direct financial rewards, but they also boost his visibility in the media.
Big deals sometimes lead to appearances on shows and podcasts, giving him more chances to share his story.
Saint Louis also has the Billiken Victory Fund, which connects athletes with donors and fans for unique NIL opportunities.
Not every school offers something like this.
The NIL Store and Brand Collaborations
The NIL Store has changed the game for how college athletes and fans interact.
Avila gets his name and face on official gear—jerseys, shirts, hats—you name it.
Fans can buy Avila-branded merch, and he gets a piece of the sales.
Smaller brands or first-time sponsors can also get involved by sponsoring limited runs of team or player gear.
The NIL Store lets athletes like Avila actually profit from their personal brands while still in college.
For Avila, teaming up with established and up-and-coming brands helps him grow his audience.
These collaborations, sometimes highlighted in school press releases or the media, show off his marketability on and off the court.
Want to see the latest NIL deals and store opportunities? Platforms like On3 and SLU’s official athletics pages post regular updates on deals.
Local Business Support
Saint Louis has a lively local business scene, and Avila’s in a great spot to benefit.
Restaurants, car dealerships, and retail shops often want to sponsor well-known Saint Louis University athletes.
These deals might include social media promos, appearances, or endorsements that reach local fans.
Local businesses value the name recognition Avila brings, both from his play and online presence.
It’s a win-win: businesses attract more customers, and Avila gets support, compensation, or products.
Some NIL deals come straight from business owners, but others get managed by the university’s NIL team or through the Saint Louis NIL partnership network.
That setup makes the process easier for both athletes and brands, building stronger community ties.
Statistical Highlights and Awards
Robbie Avila keeps showing up for Saint Louis. He brings a balanced game—scoring, playmaking, defense—you name it.
He’s one of those guys you notice in both conference and non-conference games.
Points Per Game and Career Highs
In the 2024–25 season, Avila averaged over 17 points per game. His scoring touch just kept getting better.
He dropped a career-high 29 points in a single game against Davidson. That one probably raised a few eyebrows.
People recognized his offensive skillset, especially his mid-range jumper and those crafty finishes around the rim.
He picked up honors like Second-team All-Atlantic 10 for 2024–25. In early March, he shared A-10 co-Player of the Week after back-to-back games where he averaged 23.5 points.
Here’s a quick look at his scoring stats:
| Season | Points Per Game | Career High |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 17.2 | 29 |
| 2023–24 | 16.1 | 27 |
You can dig into more of his offensive numbers in his college stats.
Assists Per Game and Leadership
Avila averaged about 3.5 assists per game in 2024–25. He just sees the floor really well.
He set up shooters and cutters from the high post, always looking for the open man. The Billikens ran a lot of offense through him.
His passing spaced the floor and made things easier for everyone. He landed on the watch lists for the Wooden Award and Lute Olson Award, which says a lot.
Teammates seemed to respond to his leadership, especially down the stretch.
Here’s what his assist numbers looked like:
| Season | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 3.5 |
| 2023–24 | 2.9 |
If you want more, check out his game stats.
Rebounds and Defensive Stats
Avila pulled down 7 rebounds per game, holding down the paint for Saint Louis. He matched up with the top bigs in the conference and didn’t back down.
He averaged 1 block per game too, using his size and timing to protect the rim.
His positioning forced opponents into tough shots and cut down on second-chance points.
Here’s a snapshot of his defensive stats:
| Season | Rebounds Per Game | Blocks Per Game |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 7.0 | 1.0 |
| 2023–24 | 6.5 | 0.9 |
He earned plenty of recognition for his defense, building a rep as a solid two-way player for the Billikens.
You can find more details in his Saint Louis player profile.
Team Success and Tournament Appearances
Robbie Avila played a huge part in his teams’ postseason runs. He helped both Saint Louis and Indiana State make some noise in recent college basketball tournaments.
NIT Championship Game Journey
While at Indiana State, Avila helped lead the team to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship game. That squad finished 32-7—a crazy good season for them.
Avila averaged 17.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. He stayed steady on both ends of the floor.
His play really mattered in those high-stakes NIT games. Indiana State took down some tough teams.
Avila, working as both center and playmaker, gave them the push they needed to keep winning.
Indiana State’s NIT run got national attention and showcased Avila’s knack for big moments.
NIT Tournament Stats Table
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 5 |
| Points Per Game | 17.3 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 6.9 |
| Assists Per Game | 4.1 |
NCAA Tournament Impact
Avila didn’t quite get his team into March Madness, but he kept both the Billikens and Indiana State in the NCAA tournament talk.
He put up all-conference numbers and made his teams tough outs.
A solid regular season and that deep NIT run put his programs on the bubble as NCAA at-large hopefuls.
Avila’s games against top competition boosted his team’s tournament resume and got them noticed by the selection committee.
Even though they didn’t make the cut, he gave Saint Louis and Indiana State a shot right up to the end.
Deep Run in Postseason
Avila’s postseason performances really stand out. Indiana State’s 2024 NIT finals run surprised a lot of people.
They knocked off higher-seeded teams, and Avila kept producing.
That deep run showed he’s a guy who steps up when it matters most.
Not many centers could match Avila’s mix of scoring, rebounding, and passing during those games.
His leadership and calm under pressure really came through, and any program chasing a championship would want that.
If you want a full look at his rise, check the Saint Louis University men’s basketball roster or his Wikipedia page.
Conference Accolades and Honors
Robbie Avila has made his mark in college hoops, racking up a bunch of awards as a center. His honors show off both his individual talent and his importance to his teams.
All-Missouri Valley Conference Honors
Avila stood out early with Indiana State in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC). As a sophomore, he made the All-MVC team for his steady scoring and rebounding.
That’s a tough league, and you have to earn it.
Here’s a quick look at his MVC stats:
| Season | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sophomore | 17.4 | 6.7 | 3.5 |
Coaches and media called him a reliable go-to guy.
His All-Conference selection put him among the league’s best forwards.
MVC All-Freshman Team Recognition
As a freshman at Indiana State, Avila made the MVC All-Freshman Team. That’s for newcomers who step in and make an impact right away.
He started games, played big minutes, and filled up the box score.
He averaged double figures and showed a passing touch you don’t see from most bigs.
Coaches trusted him late in games, which says a lot for a freshman.
That early honor set him up for more awards and put him on other schools’ radar—including Saint Louis.
Lou Henson All-America Selection
Avila picked up a Lou Henson All-America nod, which goes to top mid-major players in Division I.
That’s a tough list to make.
Being named a Lou Henson All-American means he had a big impact on both ends.
He scored in the paint, passed from the high post, and just played with poise.
Coaches around the country noticed his basketball IQ.
That national honor showed Avila was more than just a Missouri Valley star—he was making waves on the bigger college hoops stage.
Transfer Portal and Saint Louis Move
Robbie Avila’s transfer story is pretty interesting. He combined strong play, coach relationships, and a desire for a bigger stage.
His move through the transfer portal caught a lot of attention.
Transfer Decision and Process
After a huge sophomore year at Indiana State, Avila entered the transfer portal in spring 2024. He put up 17.4 points per game and shot over 53%—numbers that made him a hot commodity.
Indiana State’s coaching change played a big role. When head coach Josh Schertz left for Saint Louis, Avila decided to follow.
He wanted to stick with the coach who helped him develop.
Here’s a quick stat line from his sophomore season:
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 17.4 |
| Rebounds per game | 6.6 |
| Assists per game | 4.1 |
| FG % | 53.6% |
| 3PT % | 39.4% |
Saint Louis picked up a big win with his transfer.
Avila’s mix of shooting and playmaking is rare for a big man in the Atlantic 10, and he’s expected to be a focal point next season.
You can read more about his transfer to Saint Louis.
Seton Hall Consideration
During the transfer process, Avila gave Seton Hall a serious look.
The Big East program wanted him for his post skills and even got him on campus.
Still, Avila chose Saint Louis in the end.
His connection with Coach Schertz and a bigger role in the offense made the difference.
That recruitment showed how much schools wanted him—both mid-major and Power 5.
Expectations for his next chapter are sky-high.
Atlantic 10 Membership
With Avila on board, Saint Louis gets a major boost in the Atlantic 10.
The A-10 has a reputation for tough games and deep rosters, so Avila will have his hands full but also plenty of chances to shine.
Saint Louis faces off with programs like Dayton, VCU, and Davidson. Avila’s arrival raises the team’s ceiling and draws more eyes to the conference.
His size, shooting, and passing make him stand out in the league.
His transfer adds another layer to the A-10’s growing profile as a destination for top players looking for new opportunities beyond the Power 5.
For more about his move and the conference, check out his transfer and Atlantic 10 membership.
Personal Branding and Athlete Image
Robbie Avila stands out for more than just his stats. His unique eyewear, NBA influences, leadership style, and business partnerships have helped shape his image.
He’s built a memorable presence in college basketball, both on and off the court.
Goggles and Rec Specs Identity
People know Robbie Avila for his goggles and rec specs—he wears them every game, and honestly, it’s become his thing in college basketball. Fans just call him “Robbie with the goggles” now, and you can’t really picture him on or off the court without that eyewear.
He doesn’t wear them just for style points, though. Those goggles actually protect his eyes and let him play without worrying about his vision. Avila’s stuck with them so consistently that it’s built up his brand—fans and even companies notice. In a time when everyone’s trying to stand out, his goggles do the trick.
Here’s a quick table showing how his performance and his signature look go hand in hand:
| Season | Team | Avg. Points | Avg. Rebounds | Gear Noted For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | Indiana State | 17.4 | 6.6 | Goggles, Rec Specs |
| 2024-25 | Saint Louis Billikens | N/A | N/A | Goggles, Rec Specs |
Influence of NBA Players
You can see the NBA’s influence all over Avila’s game and presence on the court. He’s said more than once that he looks up to Nikola Jokic, especially when it comes to passing, footwork, and how he positions himself.
Jokic doesn’t wear goggles, but Avila definitely borrows his poise and decision-making. He even jokes about legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who rocked goggles back in the day, but it’s really the modern big men who shape his style.
Avila blends that old-school goggles vibe with the kind of playmaking Jokic is famous for. It’s a combo that helps people—media, fans, whoever—get what he’s all about.
Values and Leadership
Robbie’s not just the goggles guy—he’s built a reputation for his values and how he leads. He’s always talking about putting the team first, playing unselfishly, and keeping things positive in the locker room. Coaches and teammates notice that.
On social media and in interviews, Avila brings up his faith and his work ethic a lot. That reliability and humility are exactly what coaches want in a leader. Some of his new Saint Louis teammates have already mentioned how he’s quick to mentor and keeps everyone focused on team goals.
He’s grounded and team-first, and that’s a big reason his personal brand feels so relatable. People respect that, even outside basketball.
Oakley Partnerships
Because he always wears goggles, Avila has landed partnerships with sports eyewear brands. Oakley stands out as the most prominent—everyone in sports knows them. This partnership really fits, since his image is so closely tied to goggles and rec specs.
Through Oakley, Avila does promo campaigns and shows off their latest gear. He also gives feedback as an athlete about comfort and visibility, which is pretty useful for a brand trying to reach younger basketball fans. That connection makes Avila more credible when it comes to sports equipment.
His Oakley deal is just one of his NIL arrangements, but it’s the one that feels the most authentic. Seeing him play in branded eyewear just makes sense for fans and sponsors.
Injuries and Comebacks
Robbie Avila hasn’t had an easy ride in college basketball. He’s had to deal with some tough stuff, like a pretty rough ankle injury. The way he’s handled setbacks says a lot about his toughness and determination.
Ankle Injury Timeline
Avila went down with his ankle injury during the first game of the season against Santa Clara. It happened midway through the second half—he landed weird on his right leg and dropped to the floor, clearly in pain. Trainers rushed out, and he couldn’t get back in the game.
Doctors later said he had a lateral right ankle sprain. Reports said he’d miss at least a few weeks, and Saint Louis University confirmed he’d be out for upcoming games. The team really felt his absence, especially since they relied on him in the paint.
Before transferring from Indiana State, Avila averaged 17.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. Losing those numbers hurt. Outlets like CBS Sports and ClutchPoints covered the whole situation in detail.
Recovery and Performance
After the injury, Avila threw himself into recovery and physical therapy. The Saint Louis staff shared updates, saying he worked hard with trainers and medical staff to get back his mobility and strength.
Once Avila got back in the lineup, coaches and fans kept a close eye on him. They limited his minutes at first, but he still showed off solid conditioning and jumped right in on both ends of the court.
His passing and court vision? Still sharp, honestly, and those skills kept helping the Billikens.
Here’s a table that compares Avila’s main stats before and after the injury:
| Period | Points Per Game | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prior to Injury | 17.4 | 6.6 | 4.1 |
| Four Games Post-Injury | 15.2 | 5.8 | 3.7 |
Sure, his numbers dipped a bit, but Avila got back fast, and that mattered for the team’s chemistry. His recovery really highlights his determination and strong work ethic—qualities Saint Louis clearly values.
