Olivier rioux: The 7’9″ Giant Scores First NCAA Point, Making History on the Hardwood

By ArchySports Staff | November 22, 2025

In a moment that had basketball fans buzzing, Olivier Rioux, the towering 7-foot-9-inch phenom, etched his name in the NCAA record books by scoring his first career point on Friday evening. The Quebec native, already recognized as the tallest college basketball player in history, saw his historic free throw fall through the net late in the Florida Gators’ dominant 80-45 victory over the Merrimack Warriors.

Rioux, a true spectacle on the court, was deployed by his coach in the closing minutes of a game where the Gators held a commanding lead. The opportunity for his first collegiate point came as he attempted to turn towards the basket.Despite some defensive pressure from an opponent, Rioux was awarded two free throws with less than 90 seconds remaining on the clock.After a slight miss on his initial attempt, the second shot found its mark, marking a important milestone in his young NCAA career.

This pivotal moment occurred during Rioux’s second appearance for the Gators, having previously seen brief action against North Florida on November 6. His three minutes of playing time on Friday, while brief, provided a glimpse of the unique presence he brings to the game. Standing at an amazing 7 feet, 9 inches, Rioux is not just a player; he’s a walking, talking basketball anomaly, drawing comparisons to other exceptionally tall athletes who have defied expectations.

The sheer physical presence of rioux is undeniable. Imagine a player who can practically dunk without jumping – that’s the reality with Rioux. His height alone presents a strategic advantage, altering defensive schemes and offensive possibilities. While his scoring debut was a single free throw,the potential for his impact on the game is immense.This isn’t just about one point; its about the unfolding narrative of a player who is already a record-holder before even reaching his full collegiate potential.

For sports enthusiasts, Rioux’s journey is a fascinating case study in athletic progress and the pursuit of collegiate