7-foot-9 Canadian Olivier Rioux Makes Collegiate Debut as No. 3 Florida Dominates North Florida
No. 3 Florida rebounded strongly from their season-opening loss by crushing North Florida 104-64 on Thursday night. Alex Condon led the Gators with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Micah Handlogten recorded his second double-double in as many games.
The victory was so one-sided that 7-foot-9 walk-on Olivier Rioux, believed to be the tallest teenager in the world, made his first collegiate appearance. The 19-year-old freshman received the loudest ovation of the night when he took the court with 2:09 remaining, though he did not touch the ball.
Florida’s Dominance on Both Ends
- Florida displayed much stronger defense compared to their previous game.
- They dominated the boards, finishing with a 64-24 rebounding advantage.
- The Gators outscored North Florida 66-22 in the paint.
Key Player Performances
- Condon contributed four assists, three blocked shots, and two steals alongside his scoring and rebounding.
- Handlogten added 17 points and 13 rebounds.
- Thomas Haugh gave 12 points, eight rebounds, and four assists.
Additional Context
The game followed Florida’s unveiling of their national championship banner during the pregame introductions. Florida improved to 1-1 overall and extended their streak to 35 consecutive home opener wins, while maintaining a 12-0 lifetime record against North Florida.
"It was so lopsided that 7-foot-9 walk-on Olivier Rioux, the world’s tallest teenager, made his collegiate debut... Rioux didn’t even touch the ball."
"Florida (1-1) finished with a 64-24 rebounding advantage and outscored the Ospreys 66-22 in the paint."
North Florida, playing their first game under new head coach Bobby Keenen, struggled to make an impact throughout the contest.
Summary: Florida’s dominant performance featured strong defense, rebounding, and key contributions from star players, highlighted by the collegiate debut of the 7-foot-9 Canadian Olivier Rioux.