Los Angeles Lakers rookie Robbie Avila is considering a return to college after being granted a fifth year of NCAA eligibility. The decision stems from a preliminary injunction issued by a U.S. District Court judge in Colorado, which allows NCAA athletes from the class of 2022 whose eligibility expired this spring to remain eligible. Avila, who graduated from Saint Louis University earlier this year, now faces a choice between continuing his professional career with the Lakers or returning to the collegiate ranks.
Avila gained a significant following as a college player due to his distinctive on-court appearance, earning nicknames like “Cream Abdul-Jabbar.” He played limited minutes during the NBA Summer League for the Lakers and did not make a substantial impact. In his senior season with Saint Louis, the 6-foot-10, 240-pound center averaged 12.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, earning him A-10 Player of the Year honors. His decision to potentially return to college leaves his future with the Lakers uncertain, alongside speculation surrounding other player movements this offseason.