Thrilling College Basketball Showdown
In a thrilling college basketball showdown on Tuesday, No. 21 Saint Louis achieved a remarkable 79-76 victory against George Washington, thanks in part to Robbie Avila’s impressive late-game performance. Avila scored a game-high 22 points, including a crucial three-pointer that broke a tie with just 3 seconds remaining on the clock, sealing the win for the Billikens.
Standout Performances
The matchup showcased standout performances from both teams, with Trey Green matching his career high by contributing 23 points and sinking six three-pointers. This victory not only marked Saint Louis’s 14th consecutive win but also highlighted their remarkable start to the season, boasting a record of 20-1 and an unblemished 8-0 in Atlantic 10 play—setting a new benchmark for the school’s first 21 games.
George Washington’s Efforts
The contest was dynamic, with George Washington’s players delivering solid performances as well. Tyrone Marshall and Christian Jones each netted 15 points, while Rafael Castro delivered a double-double with 12 points and a staggering 18 rebounds, along with four blocks and three steals.
Game Highlights
The Revolutionaries, who were in pursuit of their first road triumph against a ranked opponent since 1996, experienced a roller-coaster of momentum. They initially shot ahead with a strong 14-5 start but allowed Saint Louis to gradually reel them in and eventually tie the game at 21 following Avila’s three-pointer.
Following a brief resurgence from George Washington, which included an 11-0 scoring run capped off by Jones’s impressive steal and dunk, the Revolutionaries extended their advantage to 15 points at 41-26 after a four-point play by Trey Autry. However, as the first half came to a close, Saint Louis managed to trim the deficit, with Quentin Jones hitting a half-court shot as time expired to bring the score to 43-33.
The second half saw the Billikens mount a comeback, as they scored 15 unanswered points to reclaim the lead for the first time since the game’s early moments. With both teams exchanging leads in a tense finish, Avila’s final shot was the decisive blow, guiding the Billikens to victory as he capped off a chaotic sequence by intercepting a long inbounds pass afterward.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, George Washington will remain home to face Fordham on Saturday, while Saint Louis prepares to host Dayton on Friday night, both teams anxious to build on their respective journeys this season.
