7-foot-9 Canadian Olivier Rioux makes collegiate debut as No. 3 Florida dominates North Florida
Alex Condon scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Micah Handlogten recorded his second straight double-double, leading No. 3 Florida to a commanding 104-64 victory over North Florida on Thursday night.
The game was so one-sided that Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-9 freshman walk-on and the world’s tallest teenager, made his college debut. The 19-year-old Gators player received the loudest ovation when he took off his warmup jersey and entered with 2:09 remaining, though he did not touch the ball.
Coming off a narrow five-point loss to 13th-ranked Arizona, the Gators showcased their national championship banner before the home opener and then delivered a dominant performance. Their defense was especially impressive against the Ospreys.
Dominant team and individual performances
- Condon, who was outplayed by freshman Koa Peat three nights earlier, contributed four assists, three blocks, and two steals in addition to his 25 points.
- Florida finished with a huge rebounding edge, 64-24, and outscored North Florida 66-22 in the paint.
- Handlogten tallied 17 points and 13 rebounds.
- Thomas Haugh added 12 points, eight rebounds, and four assists.
The Gators extended their winning streak in home openers to 35 games and improved their all-time record against North Florida to 12-0. Meanwhile, North Florida, led by new coach Bobby Keenen, struggled in their season opener and were largely outmatched.
"Rioux didn’t even touch the ball, but his debut was a special moment for the team and fans."
Author's summary: Florida's overwhelming win highlighted their defensive strength and featured a memorable debut by 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux, signaling the Gators' status as championship contenders.