Olivier Rioux Makes Impressive Collegiate Debut for Florida Basketball
Olivier Rioux, a 7'9" Canadian redshirt freshman for the University of Florida, made a notable debut by scoring his first collegiate field goal with a dunk during Florida's 102-61 victory over Saint Francis on December 17, 2025.
Rioux, recognized by Guinness as the world’s tallest teenager, chose to redshirt the 2024-25 season to focus on his development. Despite appearing briefly earlier in the season in a 104-64 win over North Florida without touching the ball, this dunk marked a significant milestone in his transition to collegiate basketball.
During the blowout win against Saint Francis, Florida fans enthusiastically chanted “We want Ollie” as Rioux checked in with about six minutes remaining. Coach Todd Golden highlighted Rioux's positive impact, noting his transition and remarkable vertical leap.
At 19 years old, Rioux stands two inches taller than notable giants Gheorghe Mureșan and Manute Bol, and is three inches taller than Yao Ming, Tacko Fall, and Shawn Bradley. Beyond the court, he has become a campus attraction with viral moments such as riding his bike around campus, ducking under doorways, and cutting down nets while standing flat-footed during Florida’s NCAA Tournament run.
