Robbie Avila is making noise far beyond the hardwood as the Saint Louis Billikens star heads into the NCAA Tournament with more than just his game turning heads.
The 6-foot-10 big man, known for his goggles and throwback style of play, has gone viral in recent months — not only for his skillset but for a growing list of creative nicknames circulating online. Among them, one has clearly risen above the rest: “Cream Abdul-Jabbar.”
Speaking ahead of tournament action, Avila praised the nickname’s originality, calling it the most creative he has heard and admitting he finds it hilarious.
The comparisons don’t stop there. Earlier in his career, Avila was dubbed “Larry Nerd,” a playful nod to NBA legend Larry Bird during his time at Indiana State Sycamores. That moniker, he said, still ranks among his favorites.
Another widely used nickname, “College Jokic,” references similarities to three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić. While Avila appreciates the comparison, he admitted it lacks the creativity of some of the others.
Fans have continued to expand the list with names like “Steph Blurry,” “Milk Chamberlain,” and the more recent “LeBron Frames,” which Avila said he only recently discovered online.
On the court, Avila has been equally impressive. He averaged 12.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in his senior season, helping Saint Louis secure a 28–5 record and a place in the NCAA Tournament.
The Billikens, seeded No. 9, are set to face No. 8 Georgia Bulldogs men’s basketball in a first-round matchup in Buffalo. The winner will advance to face either No. 1 Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball or No. 16 Howard Bison men’s basketball.
With March Madness underway, Avila now has the opportunity to match his viral fame with a defining moment on college basketball’s biggest stage.#newsafro_
