Why Florida's 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux Isn't Playing for the Gators
Florida boasts the tallest player in college basketball, Olivier Rioux, standing at 7-foot-9. Despite this, Rioux is not participating in the season opener and remains on the sidelines, drawing attention from fans wondering about his absence.
Development and Readiness
Olivier Rioux is not playing because he is not yet prepared for the intensity, skill, and physical demands of top-level college basketball. The Gators redshirted him during his first year to allow time for physical development and strength building.
Although Rioux was present to witness the national championship victory and helped cut down a piece of the net, he did not take part in actual gameplay.
"After redshirting as a true freshman last season, he's expected to get on the court in limited capacity this fall. He's unlikely to play much considering the defending national champions return their entire frontcourt, but he should at least get on the court in garbage time. (Todd) Golden already has considered using him to guard inbound passes, something Rioux did to perfection just before halftime against the United States in the FIBA U19 World Cup in Switzerland earlier this month. Rioux forced an errant pass that led to a turnover and a 3-pointer just before halftime."
ESPN
Unique Physical Presence
Rioux's unusual height earned him a spot in the Guinness World Records a few years ago. At Florida, he has also gained viral attention as a distinctive figure on the court.
"Rioux's unusual height landed him in the Guinness World Records a few years ago, and he has become a walking viral video at Florida."
ESPN
Summary
Olivier Rioux's extraordinary height sets him apart, but he is still developing the skills and physical readiness necessary to compete regularly for the Gators, who currently return a strong frontcourt lineup.
Author's Summary
Olivier Rioux, the unusually tall Florida player, is currently sidelined as he builds strength and adapts to college basketball's demands, preparing for future limited playing time.
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