Why Florida's 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux isn't playing for defending champion Gators | Sporting News

Why Florida's 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux Isn't Playing for Defending Champion Gators

Florida currently holds the distinction of having the tallest player in college basketball. Yet, during the season opener, Olivier Rioux remained on the sidelines, drawing attention and questions from fans wondering why he wasn't taking the court. For now, he stayed bundled in his sweatshirt.

Rioux isn't playing because he is still adjusting to the pace, skill, and physical demands of elite college basketball. The Gators decided to redshirt him during his first season, allowing time for physical growth and skill development. Though he was part of the team that celebrated the national championship and cut down the net, he never logged game minutes that year.

“After redshirting as a true freshman last season, he's expected to get on the court in limited capacity this fall. He's unlikely to play much considering the defending national champions return their entire frontcourt, but he should at least get on the court in garbage time. (Todd) Golden already has considered using him to guard inbound passes, something Rioux did to perfection just before halftime against the United States in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Switzerland earlier this month. Rioux forced an errant pass that led to a turnover and a 3-pointer just before halftime.”

— ESPN

Standing an astonishing 7 feet 9 inches tall, Rioux has long attracted fascination. As ESPN noted, his unmatched height earned him a spot in the Guinness World Records and turned him into a viral sensation at Florida.

Author’s Summary

Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-9 Florida Gator, remains benched as he develops his skills and physique, with ESPN noting his rare height and viral fame.

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Sporting News Sporting News — 2025-11-04

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