The Tennessee Volunteers just landed one of the most physically unique—and potentially game-changing—recruits in college basketball history. In a move that has left Vol Nation roaring with excitement and the rest of the NCAA buzzing with curiosity, Canadian phenom Olivier Rioux, officially standing at an astonishing 7 feet 9 inches tall, announced that he is committing to play for Rick Barnes and the Tennessee Volunteers.
The Montreal-born center, who weighs in at a lean but sturdy 270 pounds, made his decision known in a heartfelt social media post that read:
“Knoxville TN: After a great official visit, I’m shutting down my recruitment and I’ll be committing to the Tennessee Vols. 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 message reverberated through recruiting circles, sports talk shows, and fan forums across the country. Not only does it end one of the most intriguing recruitments in recent memory, but it also delivers a historic boost to Tennessee basketball’s 2025 class.
Meet Olivier Rioux: The Tallest Prospect in Basketball History
Olivier Rioux’s story has captivated basketball followers for years, even before he was eligible for college recruitment. At 7-foot-6 in his mid-teens, he became globally known after appearing in viral videos and playing in international youth tournaments. Now officially measured at 7-foot-9, Rioux is believed to be the tallest NCAA Division I basketball player in recorded history.
Born in Montreal, Rioux’s early years were split between Canada and international development academies. His massive frame made him a natural focus of attention, but his skill set began evolving in recent years to complement his height. He runs the floor better than most expect, has soft hands, a reliable mid-range touch, and an uncanny ability to protect the rim.
Official Visit to Knoxville: The Turning Point
Sources close to the Tennessee program indicated that Rioux’s official visit to Knoxville last weekend was the turning point in his recruitment. While he had previously visited schools like Florida, Gonzaga, and Kansas, no place connected with him on a personal, academic, and athletic level quite like Tennessee.
The visit reportedly included:
- A private sit-down with head coach Rick Barnes, who showed Rioux video breakdowns of how he’d be used in Tennessee’s pick-and-roll heavy offense.
- A facility tour at Thompson-Boling Arena and the newly expanded Tennessee practice gym, customized with Rioux-sized training equipment.
- Time with team nutritionists and strength coaches, who presented a custom health and development plan to keep his body optimized at his unique size.
- Face-to-face meetings with players and alumni, including NBA veteran Grant Williams and former standout Kennedy Chandler via video call.
- A Vols home baseball game, where fans chanted “Let’s Go Rioux!” when he was spotted in the stands.
According to one source within the Tennessee basketball staff, “Rioux lit up when he saw how much love the Tennessee fans were already showing. This kid wants to be a legend. Knoxville made him feel like he already was.”
A Class-Changing Commitment for Rick Barnes
At 70 years old, Rick Barnes has nothing left to prove—yet his relentless pursuit of elite talent continues. In landing Rioux, he’s secured not just a spectacle, but a legitimate interior presence who could redefine Tennessee’s frontcourt identity.
The Vols now boast a 2025 class that includes:
- Jaylen Ramsey, a four-star combo guard from Texas.
- Trevor Johnson, a high-motor forward from Georgia known for his rebounding tenacity.
- Dominic Zhou, a 6-foot-10 stretch-four from California with a lethal outside shot.
- And now, Olivier Rioux, the tallest player in modern basketball.
The potential frontcourt pairing of Zhou and Rioux has already been dubbed the “Twin Towers of Knoxville” by local media.
How Will Tennessee Use a 7-Foot-9 Center?
Though height alone doesn’t guarantee dominance, Rioux presents unique possibilities on both ends of the floor.
Defensively:
- Rioux alters shots without needing to jump.
- He allows Tennessee to play more aggressively on the perimeter knowing the paint is protected.
- He will likely lead the SEC in blocks and altered shots if used in Barnes’ 2-3 matchup zone.
Offensively:
- Rioux is a pick-and-dive monster—his size makes lobs impossible to contest.
- He has a growing back-to-the-basket game.
- Tennessee plans to use him as a high-post passer, taking advantage of his vision and basketball IQ.
Don’t expect Barnes to ask Rioux to play 38 minutes a game. Rather, think of him as a 20-24 minute impact player who can dominate stretches and be a matchup nightmare.
What Makes Rioux Different?
Unlike some tall prospects who struggle with agility or stamina, Rioux has trained extensively with professional trainers in Europe and North America. His footwork, flexibility, and core strength have improved dramatically over the past two years.
More importantly, he loves the game. By all accounts, Rioux is a gym rat who watches film, seeks feedback, and wants to be more than a novelty act.
His development has been aided by his maturity as well. Now 20 years old, Rioux took a non-traditional path to college, finishing his academics across multiple prep schools to prepare for this level of play.
“I don’t want to just be the tallest,” Rioux said in an interview earlier this year. “I want to be great.”
Reaction Around the NCAA
The commitment sent shockwaves through rival fanbases and drew reactions across social media.
ESPN’s Paul Biancardi tweeted:
“Olivier Rioux to Tennessee? Historic. Coach Barnes just landed a once-in-a-generation prospect with serious upside. Can’t wait to see how this unfolds.”
Dick Vitale chimed in:
“The Vols are going to ROCK Rocky Top with this young man! 7-foot-9!!! That’s not a typo, baby!!!”
Even NBA scouts are watching closely. While there’s skepticism about whether Rioux could handle the pace and space of the NBA, some believe he has “Boban-like potential” for the next level.
Fans in Knoxville Already Embracing Their New Giant
Within hours of the commitment announcement, Tennessee’s official team store saw a massive spike in pre-orders for Rioux-themed merchandise. Social media buzzed with fans photoshopping Rioux into Rocky Top jerseys and towering over SEC rivals.
One tweet that went viral joked:
“Olivier Rioux doesn’t need to jump for tip-offs. He just reaches.”
Another added:
“Finally, a player who can block a dunk from the upper deck.”
The school is even rumored to be installing a custom-built dorm bed and shower to accommodate Rioux’s unique frame.
What’s Next for Olivier Rioux?
The Canadian giant is expected to arrive in Knoxville for summer classes and workouts later this month. His formal announcement and signing ceremony is scheduled for the last week of July, where fans are expected to pack Thompson-Boling Arena.
Rioux will also join the Vols on their upcoming preseason international tour, giving fans their first look at what many hope will be a transformative player for the orange and white.
Vols’ Future Just Got Taller—and Brighter
With Olivier Rioux officially on board, Rick Barnes has once again proven that his ability to identify and land unique talent remains elite. The addition isn’t just about height; it’s about vision, development, and legacy.
As Rioux himself said, “I want to be one of the superstars this university talks about tomorrow as a legend.”
Vol Nation has heard the message loud and clear—and they’re ready to cheer their new giant into the history books.
Sidebar: Fun Facts About Olivier Rioux
- Guinness World Record Holder: Rioux holds the title for World’s Tallest Teenager as of 2023.
- Size 20 Shoes: His custom shoes are imported directly from Germany.
- Languages: Fluent in English, French, and Spanish.
- Favorite NBA Player: Rudy Gobert.
- Favorite Food: Poutine from back home in Montreal.
