Florida’s 7-Foot-9 Olivier Rioux Makes College Basketball Debut
The moment Florida Gators fans had eagerly anticipated finally arrived on Thursday night when Olivier Rioux stepped onto the court. Standing an incredible 7-foot-9, Rioux made his college basketball debut with about two minutes remaining in a dominant game.
Debut Details
Rioux entered during a 40-point win over North Florida, marking a quiet but significant start to his college career. Though he didn’t record any statistics in those two minutes, his entrance energized the crowd.
“Gator fans went WILD for Olivier Rioux checking into the game 🐊” (via @SECNetwork)
Game Context
After opening the season with a challenging loss against No. 13 Arizona, the Gators returned home to face the in-state but less competitive North Florida Ospreys. The defending national champions dominated the game, scoring 52 points per half and securing a 104-64 victory.
About Olivier Rioux
Rioux spent last year as a redshirt, winning a national championship with the team without playing in games. He is notably remembered for enthusiastically cutting down a piece of the championship net from the floor.
Summary
Olivier Rioux’s debut marks the start of an exciting journey for the tallest player in college basketball, bringing fresh energy to the defending champs.