If Gerry McNamara is looking to reignite Syracuse's iconic 2-3 zone, there's a towering talent in the transfer portal who might just be the perfect fit. Olivier Rioux, standing at an astonishing 7-foot-9, has announced his availability, and he's certainly turning heads.
After spending two seasons with the Florida Gators, Rioux is ready for a new chapter. He redshirted during their national championship run and saw action in 11 games this past season.
In those limited minutes, he made a solid impression, hitting 3-of-6 from the field and 1-of-2 from the line, totaling 7 points. Add in 6 rebounds, an assist, a turnover, and a couple of fouls, and you've got a glimpse of his potential impact.
While Rioux doesn't quite fit the mold of the traditional center Jim Boeheim utilized in his defensive schemes, there’s room for creativity. Typically, Syracuse centers were expected to cover ground and rotate to the corners when the defense shifted. Rioux might not excel in that role, but his incredible length could redefine how the zone operates, staying deeper and more compact.
As the tallest player ever to score in college basketball, Rioux presents a unique opportunity. His unmatched height could be a game-changer for the Orange, offering a defensive presence unlike any other.
Interestingly, Nebraska was the only other high-major program showing interest, though they didn't extend a scholarship offer. This leaves Rioux's future wide open, possibly steering him towards a smaller program where he could shine.
But if McNamara is aiming to bring something truly unique to Syracuse, reaching out to Rioux could be a bold move worth considering.