College basketball witnessed a historic moment on December 17 when a 7-foot-9 freshman became the tallest player ever to score in an NCAA game.
Florida redshirt freshman Olivier Rioux, just 19 years old, recorded his first career points during Florida’s dominant 102–61 win over Saint Francis Red Flash.
With only 42 seconds remaining, Rioux electrified the arena by finishing a powerful dunk. As a result, the crowd erupted in celebration. Florida’s bench leapt to its feet, while fans delivered a loud standing ovation.
Earlier this season, Rioux had already made headlines by becoming the tallest player ever to appear in a college basketball game. However, this basket cemented his place in NCAA history. Previously, Rioux held another remarkable distinction. In 2021, Guinness World Records named him the world’s tallest teenager at 7 feet 5 inches.
With this dunk, Olivier Rioux (7' 9") is the tallest player to EVER make a FG in Men's college basketball👏 @GatorsMBK pic.twitter.com/DRUQhEcCwu
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) December 18, 2025Looking ahead, Florida faces two remaining non-conference games against the Colgate Raiders on December 21 and the Dartmouth Big Green on December 29. These matchups may represent Rioux’s final chances for court time before SEC play begins.
Read: Olivier Rioux to Become Tallest College Basketball Player at 7-foot-9
Can Olivier Rioux Reach the NBA?
Although Rioux’s height is unmatched, reaching the NBA will demand more than size alone. He must continue developing mobility, skill, and basketball IQ to compete at the highest level.
Currently, the NBA’s tallest active player is Victor Wembanyama, who stands 7 feet 4 inches tall and plays for the San Antonio Spurs. Close behind is Zach Edey of the Memphis Grizzlies, measuring 7 feet 3 inches.
Meanwhile, several players stand at 7 feet 2 inches, including Donovan Clingan, Walker Kessler, and Kristaps Porzingis. Historically, the tallest players to ever compete in the NBA were Manute Bol and Gheorghe Mureșan, both listed at 7 feet 7 inches.
For now, Rioux’s journey is just beginning. Still, his historic basket has already ensured his name will remain part of basketball history.
