BREAKING NEWS: 7-FOOT-9 CANADIAN GIANT OLIVIER RIOUX SHUTS DOWN RECRUITMENT, COMMITS TO TENNESSEE VOLS IN HISTORIC MOVE — “I WANT TO BE A LEGEND IN KNOXVILLE”
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, Olivier Rioux, the Guinness World Record holder for the tallest teenager ever at 7 feet 9 inches, has officially committed to play for the University of Tennessee Volunteers. This monumental decision not only reshapes the landscape of college basketball but also positions Tennessee as a formidable force in the sport’s future
The Rise of a Giant
Born on February 2, 2006, in Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada, Olivier Rioux’s journey to basketball prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. Standing at 7 feet 9 inches, he is the tallest player in the history of college basketball, surpassing previous record-holders like Paul Sturgess and Gheorghe Mureșan. His height alone has made him a global sensation, drawing comparisons to NBA legends such as Yao Ming and current star Victor Wembanyama.
Rioux’s basketball career began at a young age, playing for various Canadian AAU teams and later representing Canada at international youth tournaments. He attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, before committing to the University of Florida. However, his time with the Gators was brief, as he redshirted during the 2024-25 season, opting to focus on his development and future prospects.
Tennessee’s Bold Move
Tennessee’s pursuit of Rioux was both strategic and ambitious. Recognizing the potential impact of adding such a unique talent to their roster, the Volunteers extended an offer that combined athletic opportunity with a vision for greatness. Sources close to the program revealed that Tennessee offered Rioux a comprehensive package, including a $3.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal, a state-of-the-art training facility, and a platform to build a legacy in the Southeastern Conference.
The recruitment process was intense, with Rioux receiving offers from several high-profile programs, including Florida, Georgia, and Texas. However, it was Tennessee’s commitment to developing Rioux both on and off the court that ultimately swayed his decision. The Volunteers emphasized their track record of nurturing elite talent and their vision for Rioux as a cornerstone of their future success.
A Historic Commitment
Rioux’s decision to commit to Tennessee is not just a personal milestone but a historic moment for college basketball. His presence in Knoxville is expected to elevate the program’s national profile and attract unprecedented attention to the sport. Analysts and scouts alike are eager to see how Rioux’s unique skill set and physical attributes will translate to the college game
Head coach Rick Barnes expressed his excitement about the commitment, stating, “Olivier is a once-in-a-generation talent. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Volunteer family and look forward to building something special together.” The Tennessee fanbase has also shown overwhelming support, with merchandise sales and social media engagement skyrocketing in anticipation of Rioux’s arrival.
The Road Ahead
As Rioux prepares to don the orange and white of Tennessee, the expectations are sky-high. His development will be closely monitored, with a focus on refining his skills and integrating him into the team’s system. The Volunteers are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season, with Rioux as a central figure in their quest for an NCAA championship.
In conclusion, Olivier Rioux’s commitment to the University of Tennessee is a game-changing development in college basketball. It signifies a new era for the Volunteers and sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead. As Rioux embarks on this new chapter, the basketball world watches with bated breath, eager to witness the rise of a legend
