World's tallest basketball player, 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux, signs with UC Irvine
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- Olivier Rioux, the world's tallest college basketball player at 7-foot-9, has transferred from Florida to UC Irvine, seeking more playing time as a third-year sophomore.
- Rioux played sparingly at Florida, appearing in only 15 minutes over two seasons, including redshirting during Florida's national championship season.
- UC Irvine coach Russell Turner praised Rioux's character and unique skill set, expecting him to have an immediate impact on the team and community.
- Rioux holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest teen and became the tallest person to play college basketball, surpassing former NBA giants like Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol.
- UC Irvine recently won the Big West regular-season title but fell short in the conference tournament, aiming to strengthen their frontcourt with Rioux's addition.
