Olivier Rioux, College Basketball's Tallest Player, Commits to UC Irvine
Rioux, college hoops' tallest player, to UC Irvine...
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Olivier Rioux, standing at 7-foot-9, has committed to play for the University of California, Irvine after transferring from the University of Florida. Known as the tallest player in college basketball history, Rioux aims to contribute to the Anteaters as they seek their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019.
- 01Olivier Rioux is 7-foot-9, making him the tallest player in college basketball history.
- 02He transferred to UC Irvine after limited playing time at Florida.
- 03Rioux aims to help UC Irvine win its first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019.
- 04He was previously certified as the world's tallest teenager by Guinness World Records.
- 05UC Irvine has a history of tall players, including Mamadou Ndiaye, who was 7-foot-6.
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Olivier Rioux, at 7-foot-9, has committed to play for the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine), making him the tallest player in college basketball history. Previously a center at the University of Florida, Rioux redshirted during the Gators' national title win in 2025 and played in 11 games last season. After announcing his transfer in search of more playing time, he expressed excitement about joining UC Irvine, which won the Big West Conference regular season title but fell short in the tournament. The Anteaters are eager to secure their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2019. Rioux is one of only three players in college basketball history taller than former UC Irvine standout Mamadou Ndiaye, who was 7-foot-6 and won the Big West Defensive Player of the Year twice.
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Rioux's addition could enhance UC Irvine's competitiveness in college basketball, potentially leading to greater visibility and recruitment opportunities for the program.
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