Olivier Rioux Flips Commitment: 7-Foot-9 Giant Heads to Michigan State, Shaking Up College Basketball Landscape
In a stunning development that’s sent shockwaves across the college basketball world, Olivier Rioux—the tallest player in the sport’s history at a towering 7 feet 9 inches—has officially decommitted from the University of Florida and announced his new commitment to Michigan State University. The Canadian phenom’s decision instantly transforms the Spartans’ outlook for the upcoming season and could tip the scales in the ever-competitive Big Ten Conference.
Rioux, a native of Quebec, has been on the national radar since middle school, with viral videos capturing his unbelievable size and developing skill set. Now 18, Rioux has matured into a legitimate Division I prospect, combining his overwhelming height with surprising mobility and an improved understanding of the game. He originally committed to the Florida Gators in 2023, citing their developmental program and coaching staff. However, in a move few saw coming, Rioux has opted to flip to Michigan State, giving legendary coach Tom Izzo a once-in-a-generation presence in the paint.
“This is a game-changer for us,” Izzo said in a statement. “Olivier brings a unique combination of size, work ethic, and coachability. We’re excited to help him reach his full potential—and he’s going to change the way teams play against us.”
Michigan State, already considered a top-tier program with consistent NCAA Tournament appearances and a national title pedigree, now gains a literal giant who could alter the trajectory of their season. Rioux’s commitment means more than just box office appeal—it’s about defensive intimidation, rim protection, and matchup nightmares for opposing teams.
At 7-foot-9, Rioux is taller than any NBA or NCAA player in recorded history, surpassing the likes of Tacko Fall (7’6”) and Yao Ming (7’6”). While questions remain about his lateral quickness and stamina at the college level, his size alone will clog the lane, deter drives, and draw double-teams offensively. Analysts believe that if Rioux can hold his own physically and avoid foul trouble, he could become an anchor for Michigan State’s frontcourt.
“He doesn’t have to be Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,” said ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas. “He just needs to play his role, protect the rim, rebound, and finish around the basket. If he does that, Michigan State is suddenly a Final Four-caliber team.”
For Florida, the loss is significant. The Gators had planned to build part of their future frontcourt around Rioux, hoping his presence would draw attention and create opportunities for others. While Florida still has a strong incoming class, replacing the uniqueness Rioux brings is simply not possible.
As for the Big Ten, Rioux’s arrival creates instant buzz. Programs like Purdue, Indiana, and Illinois will now have to prepare for the challenge of containing a player whose reach alone can alter the outcome of a game.
“This changes scouting, game-planning, everything,” said one Big Ten assistant coach anonymously. “There’s no one like him.”
Olivier Rioux’s flip to Michigan State isn’t just a recruiting win—it’s a paradigm shift. With Tom Izzo at the helm and a new skyscraper in green and white, the Spartans may have just positioned themselves for a deep March run. Basketball fans nationwide will be watching to see how the tallest player in college hoops history rewrites the playbook—one towering step at a time.
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