Florida's 7-Foot-9 Center Olivier Rioux Is Transferring

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Mar 31, 2026 10:39 AM ET

In 2025, Florida center Olivier Rioux of Canada became the tallest NCAA Division I basketball player in history. Standing at an incredible 7-foot-9, he ranks among the tallest living people and was previously the tallest teenager in the world (prior to his 20th birthday). But after two years getting minimal minutes with the Gators, Rioux intends to pursue his basketball dream elsewhere.

According to Joe Tipton of On3, Rioux intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal. His time in Gainesville ends with just seven points and six rebounds over 11 games. He should have three years of eligibility remaining.

"Florida 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux plans to enter the @TransferPortal , a source tells @On3," Tipton wrote on X.

Florida 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux plans to enter the @TransferPortal, a source tells @On3.https://t.co/IBlNla3QYZ pic.twitter.com/zS1OfXuL6n
— Joe Tipton (@JoeTipton) March 31, 2026

Untapped potential or unnecessary gimmick?

There's no shortage of basketball fans who are practically foaming at the mouth trying to get someone of Rioux's incredible size onto their favorite team, but there is also an ongoing debate over whether Rioux can tap into that immense size or if he's just a gimmick.

"He's more mascot than player, but nonetheless he will be missed," one user remarked.

"Gonna dominate at the mid major lvl," another mused.

"What can he do? Been a side show at Florida since he arrived," a third wrote.

In a perfect world, Rioux could be the next great super-big man who excels in both college and the pros like Yao Ming or the late Manute Bol. But after one underwhelming year with one of the best programs in the country, he might not even be the next Tacko Fall.

Will Rioux be able to find success at his next school?

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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