Jai Lucas is gearing up for another offseason of exploring the transfer portal, and Miami might just have an intriguing opportunity on their hands. Olivier Rioux, the towering former Florida center standing at a remarkable 7-foot-9, has entered the portal after two seasons with the Gators. While his playing time in Gainesville was limited, Miami could have a compelling pitch if they decide to pursue the tallest player in college basketball history.
Rioux's journey has been fascinating. Known as the world's tallest teenager, he made headlines long before stepping onto a college court.
Florida fans were eager to see him in action, and he didn’t disappoint when he got the chance. In the 2025-26 season, Rioux appeared in 11 games, tallying seven points, six rebounds, and an assist.
Notably, he became the tallest player to score in college basketball history.
Originally from Canada and a former IMG Academy prospect, Rioux has been part of the basketball scene for years, honing his skills and building his reputation. As Miami faces the departure of key players like senior center Ernest Udeh Jr., who led the team with 9.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game, Rioux could potentially fill that void in the paint.
Even if Miami doesn't make a full-court press for Rioux, it’s worth a look. His development at IMG Academy means he's familiar with Florida, and his presence alone brings a level of attention that’s hard to ignore. While the spotlight isn’t the primary reason to recruit him, it certainly adds an interesting dimension to the potential move.
In the end, whether or not Miami decides to make a serious pursuit, Rioux represents a unique blend of talent and marketability that could benefit any program willing to take a chance.