Olivier Rioux, renowned for being the tallest player in college basketball history, has officially committed to play for UC Irvine. At 7 feet 9 inches, Rioux is recognized not only for his height but also for his previous tenure at Florida, where he redshirted during the team’s 2025 national championship season.
Olivier Rioux’s Career Move
Rioux announced his decision through an Instagram post, stating, “Next stop: Irvine, California.” This move comes after he entered the transfer portal in late March, seeking additional playing time. Last season, he participated in 11 games with the Florida Gators.
Timing and Context
The announcement follows a series of significant developments at Florida. Key players like Thomas Haugh and Alex Condon confirmed their return for the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, star defender Rueben Chinyelu is exploring the NBA draft but may return, which limits Rioux’s opportunities at Florida.
UC Irvine’s Ambitions
Rioux’s arrival is timely for UC Irvine. The Anteaters won the Big West Conference regular season title but fell short in the league tournament against Hawai’i. They are now focused on securing their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019.
Historical Context
- Olivier Rioux is the tallest player to score in a Division I game.
- He is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as “the world’s tallest teenager.”
- Rioux is among only three players in college basketball history to exceed 7 feet 6 inches, surpassed only by UC Irvine’s own Mamadou Ndiaye, who was 7 feet 6 inches tall.
Rioux’s new journey at UC Irvine offers a fresh start and the opportunity to make a significant impact on the court as a redshirt sophomore.
