Olivier Rioux Shuts Down Recruitment After Epic Visit: 7-Foot-9 Canadian Sensation Set to Commit to Tennessee Volunteers

Knoxville, Tenn. — In what can only be described as a monumental moment for Tennessee basketball, 7-foot-9 center Olivier Rioux — the tallest prospect in the history of high school basketball — has announced that he is shutting down his recruitment following a phenomenal official visit to Knoxville. His commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers is expected imminently, sending shockwaves across the college basketball landscape.

“After a great official visit, I’m shutting down my recruitment and I’ll be committing to the Tennessee Vols,” Rioux declared via social media on Saturday evening. “I love Tennessee basketball and I wish to be among the superstars this university will talk about tomorrow as a legend. I’m committing soon.”

The news immediately electrified Vol Nation and ignited a national buzz, as Tennessee lands one of the most unique and intriguing prospects ever to enter the college game.

A Historic Prospect

At 7-foot-9 and 270 pounds, Olivier Rioux is not just a towering figure — he’s a generational anomaly. Originally from Anjou, Quebec, Rioux has been on the radar of scouts for years, setting Guinness World Records for height at a young age. But more than just his size, what makes Rioux special is how far he has come in developing his skillset.

Throughout his high school career at IMG Academy in Florida, Rioux worked tirelessly to improve his footwork, conditioning, and touch around the basket. His presence alone alters the dynamics of any game he plays in. Even among elite high school players, Rioux often looked like an NBA player competing against middle-schoolers — but he also showcased a surprisingly polished offensive game.

Blessed with an impressive wingspan and an ever-expanding understanding of spacing, timing, and defensive rotations, Rioux is more than just a “big man project.” He’s an impact player ready to leave his mark in Knoxville.

The Official Visit: A Perfect Match

Rioux’s visit to Tennessee earlier this week sealed the deal. Sources close to the family indicated that Olivier was “blown away” by the facilities, the coaching staff’s vision for his development, and the energy surrounding the Volunteers program.

Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes — renowned for molding big men into NBA-ready talents — made Rioux a top priority. Assistant coaches showed him detailed film breakdowns, highlighted how the Vols would maximize his strengths in pick-and-roll situations, rim protection schemes, and half-court offense. They also pointed to the school’s strong track record of preparing players for the next level, regardless of how unconventional their path may be.

The Rioux family was reportedly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the Tennessee community during their visit. Students, fans, and even former players reached out to make Olivier feel at home.

“It felt like family right away,” a source close to Rioux told reporters. “He saw how serious Tennessee is about winning championships and developing players — but also how much they care about him as a person, not just a player.”

What Rioux Brings to the Volunteers

While many casual fans will focus on his record-breaking height, true basketball insiders know Rioux brings so much more to the table.

Elite Rim Protection: His sheer size makes scoring near the basket nearly impossible. Opponents will think twice before driving into the paint with Rioux anchoring the middle.
Post Scoring Potential: Rioux has developed a soft hook shot and is learning to use his massive frame to establish deep post position. His footwork has improved markedly, making him a true scoring threat.
Rebounding Dominance: A near 8-foot wingspan ensures that he can snatch rebounds over virtually any competition.
High-IQ Play: Coaches at IMG Academy praised Rioux for his improving basketball IQ, understanding defensive assignments, recognizing double teams, and delivering smart outlet passes.
Transformational Impact: Even when Rioux isn’t touching the ball, his presence alone warps defenses and offenses alike. He forces teams to adjust their strategies entirely.

Vols Fans Celebrate: “A Living Legend in the Making”

Within minutes of Rioux’s announcement, social media exploded with excitement. Tennessee fans have embraced the young Canadian prodigy, flooding his posts with messages of support, encouragement, and enthusiasm.

Former Tennessee stars also chimed in.

“Can’t wait to see you dominate in orange, big man!” tweeted former Vol and NBA center Yves Pons.

Tennessee athletic director Danny White reportedly texted Barnes immediately after hearing the news, calling the commitment “a generational signing.”

It’s rare to land a player with so much intrigue, potential, and media attention before even playing a college game. In a sport where 7-footers have historically been game-changers, Rioux’s arrival in Knoxville could truly redefine expectations.

The Path to Stardom: A Vision for the Future

Rioux’s next steps will be critical. While his natural gifts are undeniable, the Tennessee coaching staff is already preparing a detailed development plan to ensure that he reaches his maximum potential.

Strength and Conditioning: Building core strength, flexibility, and endurance will be top priorities. At his size, durability is critical.
Mobility Training: Tennessee strength coaches will work to enhance his lateral movement and quickness without sacrificing stability.
Skill Development: Expect Rioux to continue expanding his offensive repertoire, working on midrange jumpers, free throws, and low-post versatility.

If everything clicks, Rioux has the chance to be one of the most dominant players in college basketball — and possibly an NBA Draft pick down the line. He would be the tallest player ever drafted if he achieves that goal.

More immediately, he could be a vital piece in Tennessee’s pursuit of an SEC title and a deep NCAA Tournament run.

A Historic Era Dawns in Knoxville

Rick Barnes has built Tennessee into a perennial contender. The Vols have captured SEC championships, made multiple Sweet 16 appearances, and sent players like Grant Williams, Admiral Schofield, and Keon Johnson to the NBA.

But adding Olivier Rioux could usher in an entirely new chapter for the program.

This is not just about landing an eye-catching recruit. It’s about Tennessee reinforcing its image as a place where unique talents are celebrated, nurtured, and turned into legends. It’s about making Thompson-Boling Arena a must-see venue where history is made every night.

When Rioux takes the floor in a Tennessee jersey, every game will feel like an event. National television appearances, packed crowds, endless highlights — all seem inevitable.

And if Rioux lives up to even a fraction of his potential, the impact he leaves could ripple through the program for years to come.

Final Thoughts: A Dream Becoming Reality

For Olivier Rioux, the journey has always been about more than just basketball. It’s about chasing a dream — a dream of becoming a player who inspires, who changes perceptions, who proves that with hard work and heart, anything is possible.

Tennessee believed in him. And now, he believes in Tennessee.

Soon, the world will watch as a 7-foot-9 superstar-in-the-making dons the orange and white, steps onto the floor at Thompson-Boling Arena, and begins to write a story unlike any other in college basketball history.

For Vols fans, the wait is almost over. The future is towering, the excitement is electrifying, and a new legend is ready to rise.