Saint Louis Billikens Center Robbie Avila discusses his nicknames, summer practice, more

ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - The college basketball season is still a couple of months away from starting, but plenty of work is still getting done during the summer leading up to November 2024, especially for the Saint Louis Billikens.

The Billikens have seen plenty of turnover since the end of last season, from a new head coach in Josh Schertz and plenty of new teammates for Gibson Jimerson.

One of Jimerson's new teammates include Robbie Avila, who was with Schertz at Indiana State, falling shy of making the NCAA Tournament and short of winning the NIT Tournament.

"We're working every single day, and exploring around the city a bit," said Avila on Total Information A.M. Wednesday. "I kind of done a few things and been to a few professional sports games, so I'm just enjoying my time so far this summer and can't wait for all the students to get on campus."

One of the areas that has been a work in progress for the Billikens according to Avila is learning the 'fast pace' offensive scheme that Schertz brings with him from Indiana State. Schertz's offense was among the best in all of college basketball, ranking among the top-15 in the nation according to KenPom , better than the likes of powerhouse programs like Houston, North Carolina, Marquette, Tennessee and more.

"It's simple but it's not easy," said Avila. "We've had our ups and downs throughout the summer, but we are getting it and I think the best is yet to come."

"I think once we get this down, we're going to be able to do some amazing things on the offensive end."

Avila became a trending topic during March Madness due to his fun and entertaining nicknames from "Cream Abdul-Jabbar", "College Jokic", "Larry Nerd" and many more. Avila discussed the nicknames on Total Information A.M. and he says his personal favorite is "Rob Wave."

"My personal favorite artist is Rod Wave....I listen to him before every single game and he's just kind of my guy," said Avila. "To have a nickname like that, it's pretty awesome."

Avila says he has found the "SLU Alcindor" nickname very creative since he came to St. Louis

"I think (SLU Alcindor) is definitely the most creative (nickname) after 'Cream Abdul-Jabbar'," said Avila. "As soon as I transferred over, I think it took like a day and somebody put it out there."