The University of Florida campus in Gainesville has recently welcomed a freshman that no one can overlook — Olivier Rioux, a towering figure at 7 feet 9 inches (2.4 meters), whose record-breaking height makes anyone stop and stare. Known as the “World’s Tallest Teen” according to the Guinness World Records, Rioux has become a subject of fascination every time he walks from his apartment to class or the basketball facility. From students to faculty, no one can ignore the remarkable presence of this young man, affectionately called “Oli.”
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A Journey from Canada to Gainesville
Olivier Rioux was born and raised in Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada. From a young age, he realized he was unique. At just eight years old, he had already surpassed the 6-foot mark and grew to 7 feet by the summer before entering seventh grade. Rioux’s family is also notably tall, with his mother standing at 6’2″, his father at 6’8″, and his brother at 6’9″. But even by these standards, Olivier soon outgrew them all.
In everyday life, he faces no small challenges due to his exceptional height. Rioux has to duck to pass through most doorways, and finding clothing or size 20 shoes to fit him is also an ongoing challenge. Nonetheless, Olivier welcomes questions and curious looks with friendliness and openness, joking that it’s probably because of his Canadian nature.
The First Steps in His Basketball Journey
Olivier Rioux began playing basketball at age five. Over time, he has not only improved his skills but also achieved significant accomplishments in FIBA events with Canada’s national team. Rioux attended IMG Academy in Sarasota, Florida, to further develop his game and complete high school before joining the University of Florida. Although he received invitations from other universities, he ultimately chose Florida, becoming a preferred walk-on player.
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For Rioux, joining the University of Florida as a freshman and competing in NCAA Division I is a major milestone. Coach Todd Golden of the Gators doesn’t expect Rioux to become a star immediately, but he believes in his potential. Wearing number 32 out of admiration for legends like Magic Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal, Rioux is eager to learn and grow, especially from tall players like Zach Edey (Purdue) and Victor Wembanyama (France).
A Towering 7’9″ Presence and a Unique Following
Standing taller than all his teammates, Olivier Rioux can dunk without jumping and has an almost unstoppable hook shot. His extraordinary height has made him the tallest player in American college basketball history, surpassing Kenny George‘s 7-foot-7 record at UNC Asheville from 2006 to 2008. Surprisingly, he even stands taller than notable NBA stars like Yao Ming and Tacko Fall.
Thanks to his height and unique presence, Rioux has quickly become one of the most anticipated players on the Gators team this season. Coach Golden predicts that fans will be especially thrilled to see Rioux on the court in the season opener against USF on Monday night. “About 95% of my conversations with random people about our team are about him,” Golden shared. “This is the first time we’ve been ranked since 2019, but everyone is asking about Olivier. He’s truly a unique individual.”
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Remarkable Progress in a Short Time
Although he’s only recently joined the team, Olivier has already shown significant improvements in physical fitness and mobility. Golden hopes Rioux will use his 305-pound frame to make more breakthroughs in the low post. The Gators’ coach observed, “He has moments of brilliance in practice when he makes certain plays that leave us saying, ‘Wow.’ Obviously, we can’t do that with anyone else.”
Rioux not only stands out for his height but also for his friendly, approachable personality. Teammates like Micah Handlogten commented that his presence has changed the whole atmosphere: “Everyone just focuses on him. He’s not shy about the attention, and he’s always willing to take pictures or answer questions. It’s amazing to have a teammate who’s always smiling.”
A Promising Future on the Basketball Court
With impressive moments in practice and tremendous growth potential, Olivier Rioux is gradually proving to be a promising figure in the Gators’ lineup. His popularity and support from fans will undoubtedly give him the motivation to keep improving.
Olivier Rioux has become the new symbol of the University of Florida, not only because of his towering height but also due to his confident, friendly demeanor. The opening game against USF will be his chance to showcase his talent and affirm his role on the team. Although challenges lie ahead, Rioux promises to leave a lasting impact on the NCAA court and win the hearts of Florida Gators fans.
