Olivier Rioux has officially entered the record books, becoming the tallest player to start a Division I basketball game. The 7-foot-9 center earned his first collegiate start for UC Irvine on Tuesday, capping a long wait for meaningful playing time after transferring from Florida in April. Rioux’s historic appearance was backed by immediate impact, as he delivered a double-double performance in the Anteaters’ decisive 92-66 victory over Chapman.
The 7-foot-9 UC Irvine center breaks history with a double-double debut
Rioux dominated the interior, finishing the contest with 13 points and 12 rebounds. His statistical output was highlighted by a surreal sequence that showcased his unique physical advantages. In a moment that defied conventional geometry, Rioux executed a dunk with the majority of his body positioned behind the basket. The maneuver appeared effortless, as the towering center casually hopped up to slam the ball home, illustrating the sheer scale of his 7-foot-9 frame.
This milestone marks a significant turning point in Rioux’s career, which had previously been defined by limited opportunities. After redshirting his freshman year at Florida, Rioux averaged just 1.5 minutes per game across 11 contests last season. His move to UC Irvine was intended to provide the court time necessary to translate his height into on-court production. With this record-breaking start and dominant debut, Rioux has finally proven that his stature is a competitive asset rather than just a novelty.
Source: Yahoo Sports
