Olivier Rioux Signs With UC Irvine After Florida Stint

olivier rioux has signed with UC Irvine, giving the Anteaters the tallest player in college basketball history. The 7-foot-9 former Florida center made the move Thursday after two seasons in Gainesville, where he remained a high-profile presence despite limited minutes.

Rioux Lands at UC Irvine

UC Irvine coach Russell Turner said, “We are excited to welcome Olivier Rioux to our program.” He also said, “Olivier is a high-character young man whose presence will elevate our team, our university, and our community.”

Rioux arrives with a profile that has followed him since he was 7-5 at age 16 and described as the world’s tallest teenager. He later became the tallest player to appear in a college basketball game, score in a game and make a field goal in a game.

Florida Minutes and March Play

At Florida, Rioux played two seasons and totaled 7 points, 6 rebounds and 1 assist in 11 appearances last season. His most visible moment came in March, when he entered the transfer portal and threw down a put-back dunk in Florida’s first-round blowout of Prairie View A&M.

That short stat line is part of why the move stands out. Rioux was a fan favorite for the Gators because of his towering frame, and even in sparse minutes he drew attention every time he stepped on the floor.

UC Irvine Adds Size

UC Irvine went 23-12 last season and won the Big West’s regular-season title. Turner said, “We’ve built a strong relationship with Olivier and his family over the years, dating back to his high school recruitment, and that familiarity gives us tremendous belief in who he is both on and off the court.”

He added, “Olivier’s unique skill set and physical presence align perfectly with the tradition of dominant front court players in our program.” Turner also said, “We believe he will have an immediate impact and continue to grow within our system, and we are thrilled to have him join the Anteater family.”