Breaking News: 7-Foot-9 Olivier Rioux Rejects $3.5M Offer from Tennessee, Commits to Florida Gators

 

In a stunning twist that’s sending shockwaves through the college basketball world, 7-foot-9 Canadian phenom Olivier Rioux has rejected a staggering $3.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Tennessee, instead choosing to commit to the University of Florida Gators.

 

Rioux, the tallest player in college basketball history, also holds the Guinness World Record as the tallest teenager in the world. His decision to turn down a lucrative financial deal in favor of joining Florida’s program is already being hailed as one of the boldest moves of the year in collegiate sports.

 

Sources close to Rioux confirm that the Tennessee Volunteers presented the multimillion-dollar NIL deal as part of an aggressive recruitment pitch aimed at landing the 7-foot-9 center, whose height and skill set have garnered international attention. The offer reportedly included sponsorship deals, brand partnerships, and significant incentives tied to appearances and social media endorsements.

 

Despite the enormous financial lure, Rioux cited “development, coaching, and long-term vision” as key factors in his decision to play for Florida. “I appreciate everything Tennessee offered, but I feel like Florida is where I can grow not just as a player, but as a person,” Rioux said in a brief statement.

 

Florida head coach Todd Golden praised Rioux’s maturity and values, saying, “Olivier’s choice speaks volumes about his commitment to the game and his belief in our program. We’re excited to help him unlock his full potential.”

 

Rioux, who has already become a viral sensation due to his astonishing height and soft touch around the rim, is expected to become a centerpiece of Florida’s frontcourt. At 7-foot-9, his presence alone is game-changing, allowing the Gators to dominate the paint on both ends of the court.

 

Analysts predict that Rioux’s decision could influence a larger trend in college recruiting, where athletes may begin to prioritize development opportunities and team culture over immediate NIL windfalls.

 

“He’s showing young athletes that sometimes, the right fit is more valuable than the biggest paycheck,” said ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas.

 

With Rioux’s commitment, Florida not only adds a historic figure to its roster but also gains momentum in the highly competitive SEC landscape. All eyes will now turn to Gainesville to watch how the world’s tallest teenager will reshape college basketball.

 

One thing is certain: Olivier Rioux’s decision is about more than money—it’s about legacy.