Olivier Rioux, the tallest player in college basketball at an astonishing 7’9”, has yet to log official minutes for the Florida Gators, but he’s already making waves with his jaw-dropping presence during pregame warmups. A freshman from Canada, Rioux joined the program this season, but head coach Todd Golden has indicated that the plan is for him to redshirt, postponing his on-court debut until next year.
A Towering Spectacle in Warmups
Though he’s not yet competing in games, Rioux’s physical gifts have been on full display. Before Florida’s 87-69 victory over Virginia on Wednesday night, the freshman center showcased his unique abilities during warmups. Video footage captured by Edger Thompson of the Orlando Sentinel showed Rioux palming the basketball and nearly dunking without even leaving the ground. His standing reach allows him to place part of the ball over the rim, leaving fans awestruck.
Social media quickly lit up with reactions to Rioux’s incredible height and natural talent, solidifying his status as a fan favorite—even before he’s taken the court in an official capacity.
The Redshirt Plan
Florida head coach Todd Golden outlined the decision to redshirt Rioux following an earlier game when fans chanted for him to enter during a blowout win. Golden emphasized that the decision was made with Rioux’s long-term development in mind.
“Honestly, it’s put him in a tough situation,” Golden said, as reported by ESPN. “He’s sitting over there at the end of games, and everybody’s yelling at him, trying to get him out there. They just hadn’t understood that this was our potential plan for him.”
Golden clarified that while the redshirt plan is the current approach, it’s not set in stone. “I’m not saying that’s 100% going to be the plan,” he said. “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 moving forward.”
A Collaborative Approach
The decision to redshirt Rioux was made in consultation with his family, former coaches, and Florida’s coaching staff. All parties are in agreement that this approach will give him the best chance to develop both physically and mentally before stepping into the highly competitive world of college basketball.
“He’s a great kid, and he’s a pleaser,” Golden said. “He wants to do what others think is best for him. And he’s coachable. If this is what our staff, his parents, and the people around him who care about him think is best, I think he’s going to be comfortable. Ultimately, it’s his decision, but I think that’s where he’ll land.”
A Marvel in the Making
Rioux’s presence at Florida is already creating excitement for what’s to come. His unique stature makes him a potential game-changer, but the coaching staff is taking a measured approach to ensure he’s fully prepared when his time comes.
The redshirt season allows Rioux to focus on adapting to the collegiate level, improving his skills, and building strength to match his towering frame.
What Lies Ahead
For now, fans will have to wait to see Rioux in action during a game, but his warmups alone have already made him a spectacle to behold. As Florida continues its season, Rioux remains an integral part of the team’s long-term vision.
With his talent and dedication, combined with the support of his coaches and family, Olivier Rioux is poised to make a significant impact when he finally steps onto the court.
Until then, his larger-than-life presence and jaw-dropping warmup routines are more than enough to keep fans buzzing.
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