A New Chapter for the NCAA's Tallest Player
The basketball landscape in the NCAA is seeing a significant shift as Olivier Rioux, the tallest player in the history of college hoops, has selected a new destination. Following a two-year tenure with the Florida Gators, the 7-foot-9 center confirmed his move to UC Irvine on Thursday.
Rioux, 20, initially shared his decision to exit the Florida program back in late March. His time in Gainesville was characterized by limited opportunities on the court; after redshirting his freshman year, his sophomore campaign saw him utilized in a very restricted capacity.
Career Highlights and Historical Milestones
During the previous season, Rioux participated in 11 games, averaging just 1.5 minutes per appearance and contributing 0.6 points. Despite the sparse minutes, he managed to etch his name into the history books in November during a matchup against North Florida, where he became the tallest athlete ever to participate in a college basketball game.
His most notable contribution on the floor occurred during a victory against Prairie View A&M, where he logged two points, two rebounds, and an assist over a two-minute span. Reflecting on his overall development, Rioux brings valuable international experience to his new team, having previously represented Canada in FIBA competitions, where he secured two bronze medals.
Looking Ahead at UC Irvine
The Anteaters of UC Irvine are coming off a solid season with a 23-12 record, which included a berth in the NIT. Although their tournament run was cut short by a loss to UNLV, the addition of the towering center provides the program with a unique presence in the paint as they look toward future success.