UF’s Olivier Rioux Makes Historic Debut as Tallest College Basketball Player
Gainesville — Standing at 7-foot-9, University of Florida’s Olivier Rioux made his long-anticipated debut against North Florida, officially becoming the tallest player in college basketball history.
With the Gators leading 104–64 in front of a crowd of over 10,000 fans, chants of “Oli, Oli, Oli” echoed through the O’Connell Center. Coach Todd Golden eventually sent the 19-year-old Canadian into the game with just over two minutes remaining.
“It felt great,” Rioux said. “The support from everybody was amazing. Even on the bench and with the fans. I’m very grateful.”
Although Rioux didn’t score or record a rebound, his presence alone rewrote the record books, surpassing former UNC Asheville player Kenny George, who stood 7-foot-7 and played from 2006 to 2008.
“It’s another day, I guess,” Rioux remarked, amused by the campus-wide fascination with his extraordinary height and the frequent photo and autograph requests.
His teammates were thrilled to see him take the court, especially Micah Handlogten, his close friend and fellow big man.
“So much fun,” Handlogten said. “When he was checking into the game, I stopped him and told him, ‘Play with confidence.’”
Author’s Summary
Olivier Rioux’s debut for Florida marked a historic moment for college basketball, as he became the tallest player ever to set foot on the court and a crowd favorite in Gainesville.