Florida’s 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux Makes College Basketball Debut
The moment Florida Gators fans anticipated finally arrived when Olivier Rioux, standing 7-foot-9, stepped onto the court with about two minutes remaining on Thursday night. This marked the college debut of the tallest player in college basketball.
The appearance was modest, coming during a 40-point win over North Florida, but it was an important first step.
“This was it, the college debut of the tallest player in college hoops.”
Although Rioux did not record any statistics in his brief time on the court, his presence was celebrated as a symbolic victory. The Gators had started their season with a tough loss to No. 13 Arizona and needed a strong rebound against the in-state but less competitive Ospreys.
The defending national champions dominated the game, scoring 52 points in each half to secure a 104-64 win.
Rioux, who was on campus last year as a redshirt and national champion, is remembered for ceremoniously cutting down his section of the net.
“Rioux was on campus last year, a national champion in his redshirt year, known most for cutting down his piece of the net from the ground.”
Gator fans were thrilled to welcome Rioux onto the court, marking the start of his college playing career.
Game Highlights
- Rioux’s debut occurred in the final two minutes of a 40-point blowout.
- The Gators scored 104 points, with 52 in each half.
- The season began with a loss to No. 13 Arizona, making this victory important.
Author’s summary: Olivier Rioux’s debut as college basketball’s tallest player excited Gator fans, symbolizing a fresh chapter for the national champions despite limited court time.