Discover Olivier Rioux: Meet College Basketball’s Tallest Player
Olivier Rioux scored his first Southeastern Conference points during Florida’s 100-77 win over Alabama. The 7-foot-9, 305-pound center has drawn national attention this season.
Historic first appearances
Rioux made his collegiate debut in November during a 104-64 victory over North Florida. Fans chanted for him, and coaches subbed him into the game.
Shortly after, he notched his first career point with a free throw in an 80-45 win over Merrimack. That same night he recorded his first collegiate rebound.
SEC milestone and game details
He entered the Alabama game with about a minute remaining and converted a field goal. That bucket counted as his first points in SEC play.
The Alabama contest was his final day as a teenager. He turned 20 the following day.
Playing time and team context
Rioux has appeared in 11 games this season. Six of those games were SEC matchups.
Florida coach Todd Golden praised Rioux’s work ethic. Golden noted limited frontcourt minutes would restrict opportunities this year.
Early life and rapid growth
The Canadian center redshirted for Florida in 2025. He also set a Guinness World Record as the tallest teenager.
Rioux’s growth was rapid. At eight he was 6-foot-1, by sixth grade he reached 6-foot-11, and he passed seven feet before seventh grade.
He wears a size 20 shoe. In interviews, he said he consumes about 5,000 to 6,000 calories daily.
Recruiting and international resume
Rivals, 247Sports and On3 rated him a three-star prospect out of high school. He represented Canada in youth international tournaments.
At the 2023 U18 FIBA AmeriCup, he helped Canada win bronze, averaging 4.5 points and 4.5 rebounds. In the 2021 U16 Americas Championship, he averaged 8.3 points and 10.3 rebounds over six games.
Teammate support and fan reaction
Teammate Rueben Chinyelu highlighted Rioux’s steady development and availability in practice. Chinyelu said he was happy to see Rioux play.
Home crowds frequently chant “We Want Ollie” during blowout victories. The chant has become a staple at Florida games.
For more coverage, Filmogaz.com continues to follow this unique prospect. Discover Olivier Rioux and learn more about college basketball’s tallest player in our ongoing reports.
