Florida's Olivier Rioux Becomes Tallest Player in Division I College Basketball
Florida center Olivier Rioux, standing 7'9", made history on Thursday by becoming the tallest player to ever appear in a Division I college basketball game. The redshirt freshman took the court for the final 2:09 in Florida's dominant 104-64 victory over North Florida.
Although Rioux did not record any stats in his brief playing time, the limited minutes offered few opportunities to do so.
Background and Career
Rioux hails from Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada, and played high school basketball at IMG Academy in Florida. He was a 3-star recruit in the class of 2024, receiving scholarship offers from Florida Atlantic and Stetson before committing to Florida in November.
International Experience
Rioux holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest teenager and has represented Canada at multiple international competitions, including the 2024 U18 FIBA AmeriCup, where Canada finished in third place.
Season Outlook for the Gators
The Florida Gators, now 1-1 after a 93-87 loss to No. 13 Arizona, aim to improve their record above .500 when they face in-state rival Florida State on Tuesday.
"Florida center Olivier Rioux, who stands 7'9\", made history on Thursday by becoming the tallest player to appear in a Division I college basketball game."
Author's summary: Olivier Rioux became the tallest player ever in Division I college basketball, debuting for Florida after a notable career in Canada and impressive international exposure.