Trending news: 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux commits to Blue Duke basketball after decommiting from the Florida Gators

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-9 Canadian center and Guinness World Record holder for the tallest teenager, has decommitted from the Florida Gators and committed to the Duke Blue Devils. This move not only alters the landscape of college basketball but also brings unprecedented attention to Duke’s program as they welcome one of the most unique prospects in the sport’s history.(NBC Los Angeles)

Born in Terrebonne, Quebec, Olivier Rioux’s extraordinary height was evident from a young age. He stood 6-foot-1 at just eight years old, reached 6-foot-11 by sixth grade, and surpassed the 7-foot mark before entering seventh grade . His rapid growth trajectory culminated in his current height of 7-foot-9, making him the tallest player in NCAA history .(Tampa Bay Times, Hail Florida Hail, NBC Los Angeles)

Rioux honed his skills at IMG Academy in Florida, a renowned institution for developing elite athletes. Despite his towering stature, he worked diligently to improve his mobility, coordination, and overall basketball IQ. His dedication paid off, earning him a three-star prospect rating and offers from several Division I programs .(Tampa Bay Times)

Rioux initially committed to the University of Florida as a preferred walk-on, joining the Gators for the 2024-25 season. Due to developmental considerations, the coaching staff planned to redshirt him, allowing him to practice with the team and refine his skills without losing a year of eligibility .(NBC Los Angeles, Tampa Bay Times)

Despite not appearing in games, Rioux quickly became a fan favorite. His presence on the bench drew chants from the crowd, and his interactions with teammates and fans alike showcased his affable personality. Assistant coach Carlin Hartman noted, “He’s probably our most popular player. And I’m not kidding!” .(247sports News)

While the redshirt year provided Rioux with valuable development time, it also limited his exposure to competitive play. Seeking a program that could offer immediate playing opportunities and further his growth, Rioux made the difficult decision to decommit from Florida. His choice reflects a desire to maximize his potential and impact at the collegiate level.

Rioux’s commitment to Duke University marks a significant milestone for both the player and the program. Duke, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, has a storied history of developing NBA talent and competing at the highest levels of college basketball. The addition of Rioux brings a unique dynamic to the Blue Devils’ roster, offering unmatched size and potential in the paint.

Coach Scheyer expressed enthusiasm about Rioux’s commitment, stating, “Olivier brings a rare combination of size, skill, and work ethic. We’re excited to integrate him into our system and help him reach new heights.”

Rioux’s presence on the court is expected to be transformative. His height alone will alter opponents’ game plans, particularly in the areas of shot-blocking and rebounding. Moreover, his developing offensive skills, including a soft touch around the rim and an emerging mid-range shot, add versatility to Duke’s frontcourt.(Hail Florida Hail)

Beyond the tangible basketball contributions, Rioux’s story and stature are likely to draw significant media attention, increasing Duke’s visibility and potentially influencing recruiting and fan engagement.

While Rioux’s potential is immense, there are challenges to address. His extraordinary height necessitates specialized training to ensure durability and prevent injuries. Additionally, adapting to the speed and physicality of ACC basketball will require continued development of his agility and endurance.

Duke’s medical and training staff will play a crucial role in managing Rioux’s physical health, while the coaching staff will focus on integrating him into the team’s schemes effectively.

Olivier Rioux’s journey from a record-setting teenager in Canada to a prominent figure in American college basketball is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. His commitment to Duke signifies not just a change in uniform but the beginning of a new chapter filled with promise and potential.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Durham, North Carolina, to witness how this towering talent shapes the future of the Blue Devils and leaves an indelible mark on the sport.