7'9" Olivier Rioux Set to Become the Tallest NCAA Basketball Player Ever

By: Brooks L | 06/22/2024

Olivier Rioux is about to make a significant mark on college basketball history. Standing at a jaw-dropping 7-foot-9, Rioux, a freshman at the University of Florida, is set to become the tallest NCAA basketball player ever, surpassing the previous record held by Paul Sturgess, who stood at 7-foot-8.

Rioux, hailing from Montreal, Canada, first gained widespread attention in 2022 when he was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the tallest living teenager at 7-foot-5.33. His incredible height has been a subject of fascination since childhood, as he spent countless hours comparing himself to record holders in his Guinness World Records books.

At just 18 years old, Rioux’s towering presence already exceeds that of notable giants like the late Manute Bol, who was 7-foot-6 (some accounts say 7-foot-7), and Tacko Fall, a 7-foot-6 sensation from UCF who briefly played in the NBA. If Rioux continues to grow, he could potentially become the tallest NBA player, a record currently held by Gheorghe Mureșan and Manute Bol at 7-foot-7.

Rioux's path to the University of Florida began with his time at IMG Academy in Florida, where he honed his skills. Despite listing himself as 7-foot-7 on his Instagram, he claims his height reaches 7-foot-9 with his size-20 shoes on. His family’s impressive stature—his father is 6-foot-8, his mother 6-foot-2, and his brother 6-foot-9—still pales in comparison to Olivier.

Embracing his height, Rioux enjoys the attention it brings and finds it advantageous on the basketball court, offering a unique perspective and edge during games. Although ranked as a three-star prospect by 247sports.com, Rioux is poised to turn heads and make a significant impact this season as part of Florida's basketball team.

As Olivier Rioux steps into the spotlight, his extraordinary height is both a blessing and a challenge. The key to his success will be maintaining his health, as towering players often face significant injury risks that can derail their careers. With careful management and a focus on fitness, Rioux has the potential to not only make history but also enjoy a long and prosperous basketball career.