The Unstoppable Rise of Olivier Rioux: The Tallest College Basketball Player Ever
As the world of college basketball prepares for a new season, one name is on everyone’s lips: Olivier Rioux. The 18-year-old Montreal native has just committed to Florida, and his stats are simply mind-boggling. Listed at an incredible 7-foot-9, Rioux is set to become the tallest college basketball player in history.
Rioux towers above the competition
Rioux’s growth spurt has been nothing short of phenomenal. Just seven months ago, he was listed at 7-foot-6, and before that, he was already making waves as the world’s tallest teenager at 16. His parents, both tall themselves, attribute his height to genetics. As Rioux explained to the Guinness Book of World Records, “We’re still not 100% sure why I’m so tall - after investigation, doctors could only explain it with the genetics that my family has.”
The author stands alongside Rioux, who was 7-foot-6 at the time
Rioux’s height has been a constant source of fascination throughout his life. At just 8 years old, he was already 6-foot-1, and by sixth grade, he had shot past the 6-foot-11 mark. By the time he was in seventh grade, he was already over 7 feet tall.
Rioux’s incredible height was evident even at a young age
Of course, being extremely tall comes with its own set of challenges. As Rioux prepares to take the court, there are concerns about his speed and athleticism. According to GatorsWire, Rioux is considered a “developmental project,” and not much is expected of him as a freshman. But as we’ve seen, Rioux has a habit of defying expectations.
Rioux’s unique combination of height and skill makes him a force to be reckoned with
As Rioux takes the next step in his basketball journey, one thing is certain: he’s going to be a game-changer. With his incredible height and natural talent, he’s poised to make a lasting impact on the world of college basketball.