Canadian teenager Olivier Rioux, standing an astonishing 7ft 9in (2.36m), has made history by becoming the tallest player ever to score a basket in college basketball. Representing the Florida Gators, Rioux completed his first official dunk in a dominant 102-61 victory over Saint Francis on Wednesday.

Record-Breaking Achievement

The 19-year-old centre had already made history when he became the tallest teenager on record, certified by Guinness World Records in 2021 at 7ft 5in (2.26m). He made his college debut last month and had previously scored a free throw against Merrimack on 21 November, marking the start of his official college scoring record.

Rioux’s dunk against Saint Francis not only cemented his place in college basketball history but also demonstrated the potential of one of the game’s most unique physical talents.

How Rioux Compares to NBA Players

If Rioux were to enter the NBA, he would surpass all current players in height. The league’s tallest active player is Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, standing 7ft 4in (2.24m). Zach Edey, of the Memphis Grizzlies, follows at 7ft 3in (2.21m), while three others—Donovan Clingan, Walker Kessler, and Kristaps Porzingis—are listed at 7ft 2in (2.18m).

Historically, the NBA’s tallest-ever players include Manute Bol and Gheorghe Muresan, both at 7ft 7in (2.31m). Bol played from 1985 to 1997, while Muresan, nicknamed “the Giant,” competed from 1991 to 2001.

Guinness World Records previously recognized Sun Mingming from China, who measured 7ft 8.98in, as the tallest active basketball player in 2013 before his retirement in 2014.

Future Prospects for Rioux

Olivier Rioux’s height and skill have already drawn comparisons with some of the game’s legendary giants, and analysts are keen to see how his talent will develop at the collegiate level. With his first dunk in the books and a growing presence on the court, Rioux is poised to become one of basketball’s most intriguing prospects.