UPDATE: In an electrifying moment during last night’s game, Olivier Rioux, the towering 7-foot-9 center for the Florida Gators, scored his first collegiate field goal with a thunderous dunk that sent the home crowd into a frenzy. The Gators triumphed over Saint Francis with a decisive score of 102-61 in Gainesville, Florida.
Rioux’s dunk came from a bounce pass by teammate CJ Ingram with just under two minutes left in the game, marking a significant milestone for the world’s tallest teenager. Coach Todd Golden expressed his excitement, stating, “Pretty special, man. The transition, his vertical. Woo. He was up there, man.”
This moment was not just a highlight; it was a celebration of Rioux’s journey. The crowd had been chanting “We want Ollie” earlier in the game, and when he finally took the court, he was met with the loudest ovation of the night. “We were just going crazy,” said Florida guard Xaivian Lee, who led the team with 18 points.
Rioux, a 19-year-old redshirt freshman from Canada, made history as the tallest player in college basketball when he debuted earlier this season. He has captivated fans not just with his height but with his potential impact on the court. Although he has been limited in playtime due to stamina concerns, last night’s game showcased his ability to dominate, even in brief moments.
Despite being new to the college scene, Rioux has already created a buzz, becoming a viral sensation for his unique experiences, from navigating campus on a bike to ducking under doorways. His journey has been filled with challenges, but his dedication to the Gators remains unwavering. Golden had previously given him the option to take a redshirt year or play sparingly, and Rioux chose to hone his skills for the future.
The Gators displayed dominance throughout the game, but Rioux’s dunk was the standout moment, highlighting his potential to become a formidable force in collegiate basketball. As the season progresses, fans are eagerly anticipating more memorable plays from the tallest player in college history.
What’s next for Rioux? With the Gators continuing their campaign, fans will be watching closely to see how often he contributes on the court as the team prepares for tougher matchups ahead. Stay tuned for updates on this rising star!
