Towering Talent Takes the Leap: Florida’s Olivier Rioux Signs with NBA Agent, Sets Sights on Game-Changing Journey On and Off the Court…Read More…
At 7-foot-9, Olivier Rioux has long stood head and shoulders above the rest — quite literally. But now, the University of Florida basketball center is looking to rise in a different way. The towering Canadian phenom made headlines today as he officially signed with a top NBA agent, signaling his intent to enter the next chapter of his journey: the pursuit of a professional basketball career.
Rioux, who gained global attention as a middle schooler for his record-breaking height and viral highlight reels, has grown from a social media sensation into a genuine prospect with NBA aspirations. His time at Florida under Head Coach Todd Golden has seen marked improvement in both his physical conditioning and his understanding of the game, transforming him from a novelty into a player with real potential.
“Signing with an NBA agent is a big step,” Rioux said in a press release. “It’s not just about declaring my intentions — it’s about committing to growth. I know I have a unique path, but I’m ready to work harder than ever. My goal is not just to play at the next level, but to continue developing as a player and as a person.”
A Growth Story Beyond Height
Olivier Rioux’s story has always been about more than just his remarkable height. At age 12, he was recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest teenager in the world. His frame drew immediate attention, but scouts quickly realized that height alone wouldn’t guarantee success at the collegiate or professional level. What followed was years of intense work — in the weight room, in the classroom, and on the hardwood.
At Florida, Rioux made steady strides. In his freshman and sophomore seasons, he was used sparingly, largely as a situational player. But by his junior year, he had begun carving out a meaningful role off the bench, averaging 6.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game in limited minutes. More importantly, his mobility, endurance, and decision-making saw noticeable improvement — traits NBA teams look for even more than size.
“We’ve seen real progress in Olivier,” Coach Golden said. “He’s one of the hardest-working guys I’ve coached. His development has been steady, and the ceiling is high. He’s learning to use his body more effectively, and he’s really embraced the grind.”
Eyes on the Draft, But Feet on the Ground
With his signature now on the dotted line with one of the NBA’s leading player representation firms, Rioux has entered a critical phase. While he hasn’t yet declared officially for the 2025 NBA Draft, his new representation signals that he is exploring all avenues — including private workouts, pre-draft camps, and summer league opportunities.
Analysts are divided on his draft stock. Some see him as a raw but fascinating project player — someone whose physical gifts could be harnessed in the right system with patient coaching. Others believe he may be better served by playing professionally overseas or in the G League to continue honing his skills before making the jump to the NBA.
“Olivier is a long-term investment,” said NBA scout Marcus Klein. “You’re not drafting him for today — you’re drafting him for what he could become in three to five years. He’s coordinated, he moves better than people expect, and he has a surprisingly soft touch around the rim. With his work ethic, he could absolutely find a role at the next level.”
Beyond Basketball: A Platform to Inspire
Rioux’s decision to sign with an agent isn’t just about basketball. It also reflects his growing interest in using his platform for broader impact. Over the past year, he has become an ambassador for youth sports development and body positivity, regularly speaking to students and athletes about confidence, identity, and perseverance.
“When you’re different, you get attention — but not always the kind you want,” Rioux said in a recent interview. “Growing up, I had to learn how to deal with bullying, with being stared at, and with assumptions. Now I want to be a voice for anyone who’s ever felt out of place. Basketball gave me purpose and confidence, and I want others to find theirs.”
That passion for outreach may be part of the reason Rioux has drawn interest from not just NBA teams, but also brands and organizations looking to partner with athletes who stand for more than just stats. His agent confirmed that Rioux is currently in discussions with several companies about endorsement opportunities, both in North America and internationally.
“He’s charismatic, multilingual, and driven,” said his agent, Sarah Timmons of Elevate Sports. “He understands that being a pro athlete isn’t just about performance — it’s about presence. Olivier represents a new generation of athletes who want to make an impact on and off the court.”
The Road Ahead
As Rioux prepares for the most important summer of his life, he remains focused and grounded. His training regimen has intensified, with personalized coaching in footwork, mid-range shooting, and defensive agility. He’s also working with nutritionists and performance experts to manage his unique frame and maintain durability.
The next few months will be critical. He is expected to attend the NBA G League Elite Camp in July, with hopes of securing a spot in the official NBA Draft Combine. Whether or not he hears his name called on draft night, the path is open — and Rioux is ready to walk it one purposeful stride at a time.
“Whatever happens, I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” Rioux said. “I’ve got a lot more growing to do — not in height, but in heart, in skill, and in vision. I’m just getting started.”
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About Olivier Rioux:
Born in Montreal, Quebec, Olivier Rioux rose to international fame for his height but has since evolved into a promising basketball talent. A standout at IMG Academy before joining the Florida Gators, Rioux has captured attention not just for his size, but for his determination, humility, and growing skill set. As he sets his sights on the professional ranks, he continues to inspire athletes across the globe to embrace their uniqueness and chase their dreams without apology.
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