Florida Basketball's Olivier Rioux Sets NCAA Record
During the Florida Gators' win, redshirt freshman Olivier Rioux made NCAA history. Standing 7-foot-9, Rioux became the tallest player ever to take part in a college basketball game, marking a significant milestone for the team.
Historic Moment Overshadows Banner Unveiling
While the Gators celebrated their national championship banner at their home opener, the spotlight shifted to a different historic event. In the game's closing minutes of Florida's 104-64 victory over North Florida, the student section chanted for Rioux’s entry onto the court.
Coach and Crowd Support
“Todd just looked at me. And I just (pretends to take shirt off) with my t-shirt."
Rioux recalled the moment when head coach Todd Golden acknowledged the crowd's demand and gave him the nod to play. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the fans and his teammates.
Historic Debut and Crowd Reaction
Rioux entered the game with 2 minutes and 9 seconds left, officially setting the record as the tallest player in college basketball history. The crowd of 10,065 erupted in excitement over his debut.
Reactions to the Record
“It’s another day, I guess.”
Rioux downplayed the significance of owning the record, a sentiment also shared by Coach Golden:
“Not something that I think that much about. I like the banner dropping before better. I'm happy for him that he got an opportunity to get out there tonight.”
Summary: Olivier Rioux's entry as the tallest player in NCAA basketball history was a celebrated moment, showing strong team spirit and humility from both player and coach.