Towering Surprise: Florida’s 7-Foot-9 Giant Dominates in Stunning Showdown with Team USA…Read More…
July 5, 2025 | Las Vegas, Nevada —
In what was supposed to be a routine exhibition match for Team USA ahead of the 2025 FIBA World Cup, an unexpected headline emerged—not from the Olympic hopefuls in red, white, and blue, but from a towering phenomenon out of Florida. Standing an astonishing 7 feet 9 inches tall, University of Florida center Elijah “E.J.” Thompson delivered a jaw-dropping performance that left NBA scouts, commentators, and even Team USA players in awe.
Thompson, a rising junior whose size has made him a viral sensation on social media but whose game had yet to catch up with the hype—until now—stole the show at the T-Mobile Arena, where a crowd of nearly 17,000 gathered expecting to see NBA stars run wild. Instead, they witnessed a one-man wall dismantle Team USA’s inside game with a combination of sheer height, surprising agility, and an emerging skill set that turned heads across the basketball world.
David Among Goliaths? Not This Time.
From the opening tip-off, it was clear that Thompson wasn’t just there to fill space in the paint. Facing off against NBA All-Stars such as Bam Adebayo and Jaren Jackson Jr., the 22-year-old held his own—and then some. Blocking three shots in the first five minutes, altering countless others, and even throwing down a putback dunk that shook the rim, Thompson quickly turned curiosity into legitimate fear for the American squad.
By halftime, Team USA led by just five points, and much of their frustration stemmed from their inability to attack the rim. Thompson had recorded 8 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 6 points—all in just 12 minutes of play.
“This kid is not just tall—he’s got timing, feel, and a presence,” said Team USA assistant coach Erik Spoelstra in a post-game interview. “You don’t teach 7’9”, but you also can’t coach what he just showed us tonight. He impacted every possession.”
A Viral Sensation Goes Mainstream
Thompson’s name has popped up on social media over the past year, primarily due to his size and unique proportions. Clips of him ducking through doorways, towering over teammates, and dunking without jumping have amassed millions of views on TikTok and Instagram. But critics often questioned his lateral speed, stamina, and readiness for top-level competition.
Last night’s performance may have silenced many of them.
“He’s always been an internet marvel,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “Tonight, he became a legitimate basketball marvel. You could argue he was the best big man on the court—and that court had Olympians.”
In the second half, Thompson showcased even more of his evolving game. A smooth left-handed hook shot over Anthony Davis, a crisp bounce pass out of a double team to set up a corner three, and a transition chase-down block on Paolo Banchero electrified the arena.
He finished the night with a near triple-double: 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 blocks in 24 minutes. Team USA escaped with a narrow 92–89 win, but the headlines afterward weren’t about their victory—it was about the giant who almost stole it.
Coach and Teammates Weigh In
“He’s just scratching the surface,” said Florida head coach Todd Golden, who was given special clearance to bring his collegiate squad for the exhibition game. “Most guys that size struggle to move, to breathe, to stay healthy. But E.J. has worked harder than anyone I’ve coached. Tonight was no fluke.”
Thompson, typically reserved, was humble in his post-game remarks.
“I just wanted to help my team,” he said, towering over reporters. “I’ve been training hard for this moment, and I know people doubted whether I could play at this level. But I’m not done yet.”
His teammates echoed that sentiment.
“Every day in practice, we see it,” said Florida guard Marcus Bell. “Now the world sees it too. He’s not a gimmick. He’s the real deal.”
NBA Scouts Take Notice
Representatives from nearly every NBA franchise were in attendance, originally to observe Team USA’s stars. But by the third quarter, scouts could be seen furiously taking notes on Thompson. One scout for a Western Conference team who asked to remain anonymous said, “If this kid keeps developing, he’s a lottery pick—no question. No one else on Earth gives you what he gives you.”
There is growing buzz that Thompson may forgo his senior year and declare for the 2026 NBA Draft if his play continues to trend upward. After last night, many believe he could skyrocket into top-five consideration.
A Giant Awakens
For now, Elijah Thompson remains grounded. Despite being the tallest known player in NCAA history, his work ethic and humility remain his strongest traits. And while Team USA continues their preparations for international gold, it’s a 7-foot-9 underdog from Florida who just might have stolen the summer spotlight.
In an era obsessed with flash, speed, and guard play, Thompson is a refreshing throwback—and a promising vision of basketball’s ever-evolving future.
As NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins tweeted moments after the final buzzer:
“Team USA got the win… but the real W belongs to that 7-foot-9 kid from Florida. Welcome to the league, big fella. Carry on.”
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