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Olivier Rioux is the tallest player in college basketball. In fact, he’s the tallest teenager in the world, standing 7-9 according to his Florida Gators athletic bio.
The freshman is a Guinness World Record holder, and he’s been gearing up for Year 1 in the SEC. Unfortunately, it seems that debut could have to wait following an announcement from head coach Todd Golden.
Golden says that the plan is for Rioux to redshirt as he continues to get acclimated to life at the college level. While his size is undeniable, his development is what’s on the mind of the Gators‘ coaching staff.
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“I should’ve made that clear,” Golden said on Thursday. “Honestly, it’s put him in a tough situation. He’s sitting over there at the end of games and everybody’s yelling at him and trying to get him out there. They just hadn’t understood that that was our potential plan…
“That’s where we’re at at this moment. I’m not saying that’s 100% going to be the plan. We’ll continue to talk to him and see if he changes what he wants to do. But as of right now, that’s the plan that we’re going to have with him as we move forward.”
He’s not ready to see the floor quite yet Golden says. This has always been the mindset for the Gators. That doesn’t mean it’s not a disappointing result for those hoping to see the 7-9 center in action.
Florida freshman Olivier Rioux.
7-9, 300 pounds AND he is athletic. 🤯
pic.twitter.com/vaM22DOmZo— Jacob Davis (@JacobScottDavis) June 20, 2024
He was dominant as a high schooler, using that incredible size to his advantage over helpless defenders. He’s been doing what he can to condition himself for life in the SEC. He’s not there yet.
unit moves 🤞 pic.twitter.com/RWNr27739X
— Florida Gators Men’s Basketball (@GatorsMBK) June 14, 2024
Olivier Rioux arrived in Gainesville with much fanfare due to that record-setting height. He very well could be the tallest player to ever play the game!
The Florida Gators have five other players who stand 6-9 or taller. Rioux makes them all look miniscule. It’s made even the most basic of celebrations difficult for teammates!
We won’t see him size up opposing defenses this season if Todd Golden sticks to his plan. Fans will have to wait at least one season longer to see him make his debut.