Olivier Rioux Becomes Tallest Player in College Basketball History
Olivier Rioux, a 19-year-old freshman from Canada, made NCAA history by becoming the tallest player ever to appear in a college basketball game. His debut came during Florida’s 104–64 victory over North Florida.
Debut and Fan Anticipation
Throughout the game, fans in the O’Connell Center chanted for the 7-foot-9 center to play. Florida coach Todd Golden responded late in the game, substituting Rioux with just over two minutes remaining.
“There were people yelling at me at halftime about playing him,” Golden said. “I’m like, ‘Listen, it will happen. The time will come.’”
On the Court and Crowd Support
Although Rioux didn’t get a chance to handle the ball, the crowd and his teammates cheered enthusiastically for his appearance.
“The support from everybody was amazing, even on the bench and from the fans. I think everybody supported me. I’m very grateful,” Rioux said.
When asked about making history, Rioux responded, “It’s another day, I guess.”
A Record-Breaking Height
Standing at 7 feet 9 inches, Rioux is two inches taller than former NBA giants Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol, and three inches taller than Yao Ming, Tacko Fall, and Shawn Bradley. He was already listed in the Guinness World Records before joining Florida in 2024.
Moments of Humor
North Florida forward Trey Cady, over a foot shorter than Rioux, couldn’t help but smile when standing beside the towering freshman during the game.
Author’s summary: Olivier Rioux’s brief debut for Florida not only energized fans but also etched his name in NCAA history as its tallest-ever player.