7-foot-9 Florida Center Olivier Rioux Makes Historic College Hoops Debut
Florida fans had been anticipating the moment to see redshirt freshman Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-9 center, take the court. On Thursday night during Florida’s dominant win over Northern Florida, that long-awaited debut finally happened.
Coach Todd Golden’s Decision
Coach Todd Golden recalled hearing fans call for Rioux to play during halftime. Despite the crowd’s enthusiasm, he admitted with a laugh that he can be stubborn about following directions from the stands.
“I said, ‘Listen, it will happen, the time will come.’ I can be stubborn. I don’t listen to direction very well at times, so when they’re yelling at me to do it, it’s kinda like, ‘Well, maybe I’ll wait a little longer.’”
The Moment of Debut
With just over two minutes left in the game and chants of “We Want Ollie” echoing throughout the arena, Golden finally gave in. Rioux stepped onto the court to a roaring reception, marking his official debut as the tallest player in college basketball history.
He played two minutes in the Gators’ 104–64 win but did not record any statistics.
Rioux’s Gratitude
“The support from everybody was amazing, even on the bench and even the fans. I think everybody supported, and I’m very grateful.”
Author’s Summary
Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-9 Florida center, made college basketball history with his brief yet headline-making debut that thrilled fans and earned heartfelt gratitude.