Robbie Avila Signs Exhibit 10 Deal With the Lakers After Going Undrafted

Robbie Avila, one of college basketball’s most unusual breakout stars, is headed to the Los Angeles Lakers after going undrafted in the NBA, according to a Thursday report from Jon Chepkevich of DraftExpress. The deal gives the Saint Louis standout a chance to join the Lakers’ summer program and compete for a roster spot.

Avila, whose play and appearance turned him into a cult figure in U.S. college basketball, produced 12.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game last season at NCAA Saint Louis, while shooting 41% from three-point range. His size, style and protective goggles made him a fan favorite, and Yahoo described him as a player whose low-athleticism game and high-level skill resemble Nikola Jokic in some ways.

The contract is an Exhibit 10, a non-guaranteed one-year minimum deal. If Avila does not make the NBA roster, the arrangement can still lead to a place with the Lakers’ G League affiliate. U.S. coverage said the main question is whether he can defend at the NBA level, but noted that his offense likely deserves a real chance and that the move is a worthwhile gamble for Los Angeles.

Avila’s popularity also grew through his many nicknames, including the most famous one, “Cream Abdul-Jabbar,” a nod to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who also wore goggles on the court. Avila once said of that nickname, “It’s the most creative nickname I’ve ever heard. It’s hilarious. I love it.” Other labels attached to him include Larry Nerd, LeBron Frames, Milk Chamberlain, Shaquille Oatmeal and Steph Blurry.