NCAA Basketball Ranking of top 10 mid-major winners of 2024 offseason

No. 3: Saint Louis

The 2023-24 season was a forgettable one for the Billikens, who finished 13-20 overall while only winning five games in A-10 play, and ultimately firing Head Coach Travis Ford. However, Saint Louis made a big splash, hiring Josh Schertz away from Indiana State. Schertz brought the Sycamores back to national prominence this year, leading the Sycamores to a 32-7 record while appearing the the AP top 25 at one point and reaching the NIT Finals. Schertz was a name that had been linked to many openings, and his presence was an immediate upgrade for the Billikens.

On top of that, Saint Louis wasted no time making some big moves in the portal. The most notable addition is big man Robbie Avila, who followed Schertz to St. Louis from Indiana State. Avila had an extremely impressive sophomore year this season, averaging 17.4 ppg, 6.6 rpg, and 4.1 apg while shooting 53.6% from the field. On top of this, guards Gibson Jimerson and Larry Hughes Jr, two starters from last year's team, will be returning to the team this year despite the changes. Jimerson was the team's second-highest scorer last year, averaging 15.8 ppg, along with 2.9 rpg, and 2.1 apg.

The combination of Avila and Schertz will be a instant upgrade for the Billikens this year, and will make Saint Louis a contender in the A-10 this year. Couple this with some key players returning to the team, and the Billikens look ready to end their 6-year tournament drought.