Olivier Rioux has made headlines as the tallest college basketball player ever, towering at an impressive 7-foot-9. His height not only sets a new record but also positions him as a significant figure in the sport, surpassing legends like Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol by two inches, and Yao Ming, Tacko Fall, and Shawn Bradley by three inches.

Despite his remarkable stature, Rioux’s time on the court at the University of Florida was limited. He played a total of just 15 minutes during his tenure, managing to score seven points, grab six rebounds, and dish out one assist. His playing time was curtailed, in part, due to his redshirt status as a true freshman during the Gators’ national championship season.

Rioux announced his decision to transfer via an Instagram post, stating, “After taking time to reflect on my journey and what’s best for my future, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal.” This decision comes after a season where he felt the weight of expectations but had limited opportunities to showcase his skills on the court.

Reflecting on his experience at Florida, Rioux expressed gratitude, saying, “Winning the national championship last year was a dream come true for all of us.” He also noted the deep connections he formed with his teammates, adding, “The bond we share is untouchable.” This sentiment underscores the emotional aspect of his departure, as he leaves behind a team that achieved significant success.

Rioux’s journey to becoming the tallest college basketball player began long before he stepped onto the Florida campus. He set a Guinness World Record as the world’s tallest teen, a distinction that brought him considerable attention even before he began his collegiate career.

As he prepares for his next chapter, the basketball community is left to ponder where Rioux will land next. His unique combination of size and skill could make him a valuable asset to many programs looking to bolster their frontcourt. Observers are eager to see how he will adapt to a new environment and whether he can translate his potential into more substantial playing time.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding which schools are currently pursuing Rioux, but his height alone ensures that he will be a sought-after recruit in the transfer market. As the landscape of college basketball continues to evolve, players like Rioux remind us of the extraordinary talents that can emerge from unexpected places.

The post Tallest college basketball player: Olivier Rioux: The at 7-Foot-9 appeared first on News Canada.

In a stunning upset, the Florida Gators basketball team lost to the Iowa Hawkeyes 73-72 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on March 22, 2026. This defeat marks a significant moment for the Gators, who entered the tournament as the reigning national champions.

The Gators had previously showcased their dominance with a remarkable 114-55 victory over Prairie View A&M, where they shot an impressive 64.3% from the field. This game was particularly notable for the Gators’ ability to outscore Prairie View A&M 64-10 in the paint, demonstrating their physical presence and offensive efficiency.

Despite their earlier triumph, the Gators struggled against Iowa, shooting 50% overall but only managing 32% from the three-point line. They also faced challenges at the free-throw line, converting 74% of their attempts. The game was tightly contested, with the Gators trailing by 12 points early in the second half, a situation they could not overcome.

Florida’s season concluded with a record of 27-8, a stark contrast to their previous success. The loss to Iowa not only ended their title defense but also marked Iowa’s first advancement to the Sweet 16 since 1999, highlighting the competitive nature of this year’s tournament.

Players like Olivier Rioux, standing at 7-foot-9, and others such as Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, and Rueben Chinyelu had significant roles throughout the season. However, their efforts fell short against a determined Iowa squad.

Byron Smith, a key figure in the Gators’ campaign, remarked, “We need some help from the Lord,” reflecting the team’s need for divine intervention in their challenging moments. The emotional weight of the loss was palpable, especially for a team that had dominated their previous matchup.

As the Gators head into the offseason, questions loom regarding the future of their roster and potential changes that may come. Meanwhile, Iowa will prepare to face Nebraska in the Sweet 16, a matchup that will further test their resilience and skill.

This unexpected turn of events in the NCAA Tournament serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of March Madness, where even the most formidable teams can face sudden defeat.

The post Florida Gators Basketball: A Shocking Exit from the NCAA Tournament appeared first on News Canada.