Florida Gators’ Gentle Giant Olivier Rioux Lays Out His Reasons for Loving the Program
**Gainesville, FL – January 4, 2026**
In an exclusive interview ahead of the new year, Florida Gators redshirt freshman center **Olivier Rioux** – the towering 7-foot-9 Canadian who has become a fan favorite and a literal giant in college basketball – opened up about why he truly loves being part of the University of Florida basketball program.
The 19-year-old from Terrebonne, Quebec, who holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest teenager and recently made history as the tallest player ever to appear (and score) in a Division I game, shared heartfelt insights into his journey with the Gators.
Rioux, who redshirted the 2024-25 season as Florida captured the national championship, has seen limited but memorable minutes this year, including his debut against North Florida, his first point against Merrimack, and a thunderous dunk that went viral. Despite the hype surrounding his unprecedented height, Rioux remains grounded, emphasizing the intangibles that make Gainesville home.
“I came to Florida because I want to work hard,” Rioux said plainly, echoing the sentiment listed on his official Gators bio. “That’s the biggest reason. The coaching staff here pushes you every day, and the players around me are all about getting better. It’s a place where hard work is rewarded, and that’s what I love most.”
Rioux arrived at Florida after a standout prep career at IMG Academy in Bradenton, reclassifying to join the 2024 class. He committed to head coach Todd Golden’s program in November 2023, drawn to its rising trajectory and developmental focus.
### The Development Opportunity
One of the primary reasons Rioux cites for his affection toward the Gators is the program’s commitment to player development. At 7-9 and over 300 pounds, Rioux presents unique challenges – from mobility to conditioning – but the Florida staff has tailored a plan to maximize his potential.
“Coach Golden and the strength coaches have been amazing,” Rioux explained. “They understand what it takes for someone my size. I need to eat around 6,000 calories a day just to maintain my weight and energy. The facilities here are top-notch, and they help me with everything – from nutrition to training that improves my agility without risking injury.”
Rioux’s daily battles in practice against a loaded frontcourt – including standouts like Rueben Chinyelu, Micah Handlogten, and Alex Condon – have sharpened his skills. “Practicing against those guys every day makes me better,” he said. “They’re all so talented and physical. It challenges me in ways I didn’t experience before. Even though my minutes are limited right now, I know it’s building toward something bigger.”
The redshirt year allowed Rioux to contribute on the scout team while preserving eligibility, and he was part of the 2025 national title run. “Being on a championship team, even from the bench, was incredible,” he reflected. “It showed me what this program is capable of.”
### The Fan Support and Atmosphere
No discussion with Rioux is complete without mentioning the electric atmosphere at the O’Connell Center. Gators fans have embraced the “gentle giant,” often chanting “We want Oli!” during blowouts.
“The fans here are unbelievable,” Rioux said with a wide smile. “From the moment I stepped on campus, they’ve been so supportive. Hearing those chants… it’s motivating. It makes me feel like part of a family. Gainesville is a true college town – everyone bleeds orange and blue.”
Rioux’s popularity extends beyond the court. He regularly stops for photos on campus, embraces his viral moments (like cutting down nets without a ladder after the SEC Tournament), and even tried his hand at football workouts over the summer, drawing laughs from the basketball staff.
“I love the community here,” he added. “The weather is great coming from Canada, and the campus is beautiful. It’s easy to focus on basketball and school.”
### Teammates and Culture
Rioux repeatedly praises his teammates for creating a welcoming environment. “The guys treat me like one of them – no special treatment because of my height,” he said. “We have fun, but we’re serious about winning. After last year’s championship, everyone came back hungry. That’s the culture Coach Golden has built – no egos, just hard work and teamwork.”
He wears No. 32 in honor of legends like Magic Johnson and Shaquille O’Neal, both of whom influenced his love for the game. “Shaq is one of my favorites because he dominated with size, but also skill. I want to develop that too.”
Rioux’s favorite NBA players include Giannis Antetokounmpo for his work ethic and Boban Marjanović for proving big men can thrive in today’s game.
### Looking Ahead
As the Gators push through the 2025-26 season, Rioux remains patient about his role. “I’m focused on getting better every day,” he said. “Whether it’s garbage time or more, I just want to help the team win. Florida gave me the chance to develop at a high level, and I love it here for that.”
Off the court, Rioux enjoys simple pleasures: his favorite food is poutine (a nod to his Canadian roots), his favorite holiday is Christmas for family time, and he’s traveled to places like Croatia. He dreams of representing Canada internationally again after bronze at the 2023 U18 FIBA AmeriCup.
In a sport increasingly favoring versatility and speed, Rioux’s love for Florida stems from a program that values his unique attributes while pushing him to evolve.
“I’m grateful every day to be a Gator,” Rioux concluded. “This is where I belong – working hard, growing, and chasing more championships.”
With his positive attitude and towering presence, Olivier Rioux isn’t just the biggest player in college basketball – he’s one of its most endearing stories.
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