Olivier Rioux, World’s Tallest Teen to Redshirt for Gators

The world’s tallest teenager might have to wait a year to become the world’s tallest college basketball player. Florida coach, Todd Golden, said that the freshman who owns a spot in the Guinness recordbook, is planning to redshirt. Had the popular Canadianplayed in even one game, he would have burned one of his four seasons of college eligibility.

One Year of Development

Olivier Rioux, the freshman for the Florida Gators, will spend the 2024-25 season practicing with teammates and honing his skills, and will still be a freshmannext fall. This strategic decision aims to optimize his development and preserve his eligibility for future years. By redshirting, Rioux will have the opportunity to train intensively with the team, refine his skills, and adjust to the demands of college basketball without the pressure of immediate competition.

“I should have made that clear,” Golden said. “Honestly, it’s put him in a tough situation. He’s sitting over there at the end of games and everybody’s yelling at him and trying to get him out there. They just hadn’t understood that that was our potential plan for him.” Florida students chanted for “Oli” in both of the team’s home games so far this season.

Strategic Decision for the Future

This approach will allow him to grow physicallyand mentally, ultimately positioning him for a more impactful career in the years to come. Rioux’s immense size and potential have already captured the attention of fans, who have been eager to see him take the court.

“So that’s where we’re at at this moment. I’m not saying that’s 100% going to be the plan. We’ll continue to talk to him and see if he changes what he wants to do. But as of right now, that’s the plan that we’re going to have with him as we move forward,” Todd Golden shared. Despite the excitement surrounding his presence, the coaching staff believes that redshirting is the bestcourse of actionto ensure his long-term success.

Fan Favorite and Future Potential

While the decision may disappointsome fans, it’s important to recognize that it’s being made with Rioux’s best interests in mind. By taking a patient approach, the Gators hope to cultivate a dominant force in college basketball for years to come. Rioux handled the decision well, Golden said.

“He’s a great kid, and he’s a pleaser. He wants to do what others think is best for him. And he’s coachable. Again, if this is what our staff, his parents, the people around him that care about him think is best, I think he’s going to be comfortable. Ultimately, it’s his decision. But I think that’s where he’ll land.”