In a move that has sent ripples across the college basketball landscape, Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-6 Canadian sensation known as the tallest basketball player in the NCAA, announced via social media that he has committed to Florida State University for the upcoming 2025–26 season. Rioux, who had previously suited up for the Florida Gators, also used his platform to explain why he made the decision to leave Gainesville behind.
The towering center delivered his statement with maturity and clarity, laying out five reasons behind his departure in a heartfelt video post that has since gone viral among basketball fans, scouts, and analysts. As the NCAA transfer portal continues to reshape college hoops, Rioux’s decision highlights not only the volatility of modern roster management but also the growing influence of personal development and NIL opportunities in student-athlete decisions.
In this long-form feature, we’ll explore Rioux’s journey, examine his five reasons for leaving the Gators, analyze why Florida State is a natural fit for the Montreal native, and what his presence means for Leonard Hamilton’s Seminoles moving forward.
The Rise of Olivier Rioux: From Viral Phenom to College Contributor
Olivier Rioux made international headlines years before stepping onto a college campus. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Rioux began turning heads as early as age 12 due to his incredible height. At that age, he was already over 6-foot-10, and by the time he reached high school, he stood at an astounding 7-foot-6, making him the tallest teen basketball player in the world.
He gained internet fame through a viral video while playing for the French prep powerhouse IMG Academy in Florida. The footage showed him dunking with minimal effort, often without jumping, and dominating undersized opponents with ease. But as Rioux transitioned to the next level, it became clear that his development would require more than just size.
Joining the Florida Gators as a developmental piece, Rioux was part of a program that viewed him as a long-term project. Though he appeared in limited action during his freshman and sophomore seasons, there were flashes of promise—excellent shot-altering ability, improved footwork, and an undeniable rebounding presence.
Still, the young center grew increasingly dissatisfied with his role, and after two seasons in Gainesville, he has opted for a fresh start in Tallahassee.
The Announcement Heard Across College Basketball
In a nearly 3-minute video posted to his Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) accounts, Rioux announced:
“After a lot of prayer, conversations with my family, and consideration for what’s best for my growth as a person and a player, I’ve decided to transfer to Florida State University. I’m thankful for the University of Florida and everyone who supported me there, but I know this is the right move. Here are five reasons I’ve chosen to make this change…”
With that, Rioux listed and elaborated on each of his five reasons—insightful comments that reveal much about the changing environment of college basketball, especially for unique athletes like him.
Reason #1: Developmental Focus and Big Man Legacy at FSU
“Florida State has a history of developing big men and getting them ready for the next level. I want to be somewhere that understands how to use a 7-foot-6 center.”
Indeed, Leonard Hamilton’s program has become something of a haven for physically gifted big men. From Christ Koumadje (7-foot-4) to Balsa Koprivica and Mfiondu Kabengele, Florida State has routinely developed frontcourt players who thrive in defensive systems built around length, athleticism, and paint presence.
For Rioux, who often looked out of sync in Florida’s transition-heavy style, the move to a more defensive and half-court-oriented scheme is logical. FSU’s defensive-minded identity and switching schemes emphasize rim protection and allow big men to flourish in defined roles.
Reason #2: NIL Opportunities in Tallahassee
“I’ve got some great NIL opportunities at Florida State that align with who I am, what I represent, and where I’m going.”
While the specifics weren’t disclosed, multiple sources close to the Florida State basketball program have confirmed that Rioux is expected to benefit from NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals centered around his uniqueness and brand appeal. As the tallest player in college basketball and a French-speaking Canadian, Rioux is positioned to market himself in ways few athletes can.
Florida State’s collective has reportedly helped arrange partnerships with international brands, apparel companies, and digital content creators who want to collaborate with Rioux on branded content and community campaigns—particularly targeting bilingual and global markets.
Reason #3: Playing Time and On-Court Role
“I want to play. I respect the grind, but I feel like I’ve earned a chance to get meaningful minutes and contribute.”
At Florida, Rioux often found himself buried on the bench behind more agile post players and small-ball lineups. His averages of 1.2 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in just 4.3 minutes per game didn’t reflect his potential, but rather his limited usage.
Florida State, however, has a history of integrating unconventional lineups and maximizing height. With several departures from last season’s frontcourt—including the graduation of starting center Cam Corhen—the Seminoles are in need of a rim protector and rebounder.
Hamilton reportedly assured Rioux that he would have a real opportunity to compete for major minutes in the rotation, particularly against physical teams in the ACC like Duke, Virginia, and Clemson.
Reason #4: Cultural and Academic Fit
“Florida State just feels like home. The culture, the coaches, the city… it’s where I see myself growing, not just as a player but as a man.”
While Tallahassee and Gainesville are geographically close, Rioux made it clear that the cultural environment at Florida State resonated with him in a deeper way. Sources close to his family say he connected with the diverse international student population at FSU and felt a stronger sense of belonging during his visits.
Academically, FSU also offers Rioux the chance to pursue a communications and media studies degree, which aligns with his interest in broadcasting and basketball analysis post-playing career. The university’s programs in global communication and sports media are among the best in the Southeast.
Reason #5: Belief in Leonard Hamilton and His Vision
“Coach Hamilton believes in me—not just in what I could be, but in who I already am. That means everything to me.”
Now in his 23rd season leading the Seminoles, Leonard Hamilton is one of the most respected coaches in the country. Known for his player-first approach and loyalty to his players’ development, Hamilton has built a culture at Florida State that’s rooted in trust, patience, and strategic discipline.
Rioux reportedly met with Hamilton and his staff multiple times during the transfer process and came away feeling deeply respected—not as a sideshow or a curiosity, but as a player with a unique skill set and leadership potential. That validation proved to be the final nudge Rioux needed.
What Florida State Gets in Olivier Rioux
At 7-foot-6 and 290 pounds, Rioux will immediately become the most physically imposing player in the ACC and potentially the NCAA. But beyond his height, there’s real intrigue surrounding his improved mobility, timing, and understanding of the game.
In workouts, Rioux has shown progress in his lateral movement, a smoother shooting form, and a greater understanding of defensive positioning. With the right strength and conditioning program, his upside as a shot-blocking anchor, elite rebounder, and screen-setter is immense.
Analysts believe that if Florida State tailors its defensive schemes to Rioux’s presence—much like teams did for Tacko Fall at UCF—he could become a legitimate X-factor in the ACC and a viral fan favorite.
Gators Reaction: What Florida Loses
Florida head coach Todd Golden expressed public support for Rioux’s decision in a brief statement:
“We thank Olivier for his time here. He worked hard, stayed positive, and was a great teammate. We wish him all the best at Florida State.”
Still, Rioux’s departure leaves the Gators without a true rim protector, and his exit marks yet another transfer in what has been a volatile offseason for Florida. For a program trying to reclaim national relevance, losing a player with Rioux’s size and upside—even in a limited role—stings.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Rioux and the Seminoles
Rioux is expected to arrive in Tallahassee in early June and begin workouts with the team by mid-summer. There are rumors that FSU is designing a custom training and recovery program for him, modeled after those used by NBA teams with oversized centers.
The 2025–26 season could be a breakout year for both player and program. Florida State, coming off a rebuilding campaign, is aiming to return to the NCAA Tournament—and the presence of a 7-foot-6 defensive anchor might just be the disruptive force they need.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Transfer, a Statement
Olivier Rioux’s decision to leave Florida and commit to Florida State isn’t just a headline—it’s a statement about agency, development, and the importance of fit. In today’s college basketball climate, where players can seek opportunities to thrive rather than merely survive, Rioux’s transfer symbolizes the freedom and foresight student-athletes are finally being granted.
As one of the sport’s most recognizable figures—both literally and figuratively—Rioux has chosen not to wait passively for a chance. Instead, he’s chasing growth, relevance, and impact.