Guinness World Record Holder and 7-Foot-9 Basketball Phenom Reaffirms Commitment to Florida Gators
Gainesville, FL — Olivier Rioux, the towering 7-foot-9 Canadian center for the Florida Gators, has officially reaffirmed his commitment to the program, choosing to forgo lucrative multi-million dollar offers from top-tier programs such as Florida State, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, and Texas. This decision underscores his dedication to the Gators and his belief in their vision for his development.
A Record-Breaking Athlete
At just 19 years old, Rioux holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest male teenager ever recorded, a title he earned at the age of 15 when he stood at 7 feet tall. As of 2025, he has grown to 7 feet 9 inches, making him the tallest player in college basketball history. His exceptional height is complemented by a strong basketball lineage; his father stands at 6 feet 8 inches, his mother at 6 feet 2 inches, and his older brother at 6 feet 9 inches.
A Promising Career Ahead
Rioux began playing basketball at the age of five and quickly rose through the ranks, attending IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Prior to joining the Gators, he represented Canada in international competitions, earning a bronze medal at the 2023 U18 FIBA AmeriCup. Despite his impressive stature, Rioux is known for his humility and team-first mentality, attributes that have endeared him to coaches and teammates alike.
Looking to the Future
As Rioux continues to develop under the guidance of the Gators’ coaching staff, his potential to impact the game grows. While he has yet to play in an official NCAA game, his presence on the team has already made a significant impact, drawing attention from fans and media worldwide. With his commitment reaffirmed, the basketball community eagerly anticipates his debut and the unique contributions he will bring to the court.
