Florida Gators' 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux to Redshirt Upcoming Basketball Season

Olivier Rioux, a 7-foot-9 freshman center for the Florida Gators, will redshirt during the 2024-25 college basketball season, according to head coach Todd Golden. This decision means Rioux will not play in any games this year, preserving his eligibility for future seasons. Golden explained that the plan was made in consultation with Rioux, his family, and his coaches to focus on his development before taking the court.

The towering Rioux, recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s tallest teenager, has garnered significant attention from fans, who chanted for him during games. Despite the enthusiasm, Golden highlighted the necessity of providing Rioux with time to hone his skills without the pressure of immediate game performance. “He’s going to be comfortable with this decision,” Golden stated, adding that the coaching staff felt it was vital for Rioux to develop properly at the collegiate level.

Rioux has yet to make an appearance in any games this season, although he could play in up to four contests without losing his redshirt status. His exceptional stature has made him a unique presence on the team, standing out even while sitting on the bench. The decision to redshirt allows him to prepare for future competition, fitting into the coaching strategy as the Gators aim for success this season. With Rioux’s height providing both advantages and challenges, the coaching staff hopes that this year will be one of growth and adjustment, setting the stage for Rioux to impact the team’s performance in subsequent seasons.

Florida plans to redshirt 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux for 2024-25 season

Florida plans to redshirt 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux for 2024-25 season

Rioux will be the tallest player ever at the top level of college basketball when he takes the court.

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The world's tallest teenager, 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux, plans to redshirt at Florida this season

The world's tallest teenager, 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux, plans to redshirt at Florida this season

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The world's tallest teenager might have to wait a year to become the world's tallest college basketball player.

www.miltontoday.ca
Florida big man Olivier Rioux plans to redshirt in first year at Florida

Florida big man Olivier Rioux plans to redshirt in first year at Florida

Todd Golden announced Florida’s plan to redshirt 7-foot-9 freshman Olivier Rioux this season, explaining the big man’s lack of playing time.

gatorswire.usatoday.com
7-foot-9-inch teen not expected to play college basketball this season, despite fans' chants

7-foot-9-inch teen not expected to play college basketball this season, despite fans' chants

Olivier Rioux holds the Guinness World Record for world's tallest male teenager.

abcnews.go.com
Olivier Rioux, the world's tallest teenager, plans to redshirt at Florida

Olivier Rioux, the world's tallest teenager, plans to redshirt at Florida

Florida head coach Todd Golden said the plan is to have Rioux develop his game in the Gators' team practices during the 2024-25 season.

www.thebiglead.com
No. 20 Florida beats Grambling State 86-62 as coach Todd Golden deals with allegations

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Rueben Chinyelu tied his career-high with 14 points, Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard added 12 apiece, and No. 20 Florida beat Grambling State 86-6

apnews.com
7-Foot-9 Teen Olivier Rioux to Redshirt at Florida in 2024

7-Foot-9 Teen Olivier Rioux to Redshirt at Florida in 2024

Olivier Rioux, at 7-foot-9, confirmed as the world's tallest teenager, will redshirt at Florida this season, as coach Todd Golden announced. The decis

bvmsports.com
Olivier Rioux Takes Time To Prepare For Gators

Olivier Rioux Takes Time To Prepare For Gators

Olivier Rioux, reputedly the world’s tallest teenager at 7 feet 9 inches, is set to redshirt for the Florida Gators basketball team, as confirmed by h

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