HE’S 7’9″ AND HE’S A SPARTAN! World’s tallest college athlete Olivier Rioux decommits from Florida and commits to Michigan State! The Guinness World Record holder is bringing BIG energy to East Lansing — literally! “The Next Tower is Rising!” MSU’s future just got taller than ever!
HE’S 7’9″ AND HE’S A SPARTAN!
World’s Tallest College Athlete Olivier Rioux Decommits from Florida, Commits to Michigan State!
In a towering turn of events that’s making waves across the college basketball landscape, 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux — the world’s tallest college athlete and Guinness World Record holder — has officially decommitted from the University of Florida and committed to Michigan State University. The jaw-dropping news has lit up East Lansing and shaken up recruiting boards nationwide. With a presence that quite literally looms over the competition, Rioux’s decision sends a clear message: “The Next Tower is Rising!”
A Historic Commitment
Olivier Rioux isn’t just another basketball player. At 7’9”, the Canadian phenom isn’t only the tallest active athlete in NCAA history, but also the tallest teenager on record — a title certified by the Guinness World Records. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Rioux has been making headlines since he was 12 years old, standing 6’10” in middle school and dunking without jumping. Now, he’s not just growing physically, but also as a basketball force. And Michigan State just became the epicenter of that growth.
Rioux originally committed to Florida in 2023, where he was seen as a developmental project with freakish upside. But after two years of gradual growth and improved skill work, the towering center decided it was time for a change — and Tom Izzo was ready. The Michigan State head coach, already known for building NBA talent and cultivating under-the-radar bigs into stars, personally spearheaded the recruitment effort. The result? One of the most talked-about commitments in modern college hoops.
Why Michigan State?
So, why MSU? According to Rioux and his camp, it’s about opportunity, development, and vision.
> “Coach Izzo sees me not as a gimmick, but as a player who can make a real difference,” Rioux told ESPN. “He’s built champions, and I want to be one. East Lansing felt like home right away. I want to bring BIG energy to the Spartans — literally!”
Izzo, in a press release, didn’t hold back on his excitement.
> “Olivier has the kind of size you don’t coach — it’s generational. But what impressed me most was his heart, his work ethic, and his desire to improve. He’s not coming here to be a novelty. He’s coming here to compete.”
And that’s exactly what Spartan Nation wants to hear. With Michigan State aiming for another Final Four run, Rioux adds a literal and figurative big piece to the puzzle.
A Giant Leap for the Spartans
Standing at 7’9” in shoes, Rioux dwarfs not only opponents but also teammates — even those considered “big men” at 6’10” or 7’0”. His wingspan measures an astounding 8’1”, giving him unmatched rebounding and shot-blocking potential. While raw, his footwork and mobility have dramatically improved over the past year, making him far more than just a tall presence in the paint.
Physically, he commands attention. But it’s his potential that excites scouts the most. He’s shown soft touch around the rim, improved passing out of double teams, and developing instincts as a rim protector. MSU plans to pair him with veteran forwards and guards who can complement his skillset — creating a potentially nightmare matchup for Big Ten opponents.
The Viral Sensation Grows Up
Many first met Olivier Rioux via viral videos — a giant among boys dunking without effort in youth leagues. But what started as novelty has matured into a serious basketball journey. Rioux has worked with elite trainers, played internationally, and trained with NBA-level strength and conditioning coaches. His transition to Michigan State signifies the next chapter: going from a Guinness headline to a legitimate NCAA difference-maker.
And with NIL opportunities now in full swing, Rioux’s presence also brings major marketing potential to East Lansing. Already a viral sensation, his arrival could elevate MSU’s brand globally — from TikTok to SportsCenter.
The Future Is Tall
Michigan State fans have every reason to be excited. With Olivier Rioux joining the fold, the Spartans aren’t just recruiting height — they’re recruiting hope, upside, and a player whose story transcends the court.
Already dubbed “The Eiffel Tower of East Lansing,” Rioux is expected to redshirt his first season to further develop, though insiders say he could contribute in specific matchups as early as midseason. Regardless, the buzz is real.
MSU’s recruiting class, already ranked among the top 10 nationally, just got historically bigger. With Rioux anchoring the future frontcourt, Izzo may be building his most unique team yet.
Final Thoughts
In an era where size still matters, Michigan State just secured the biggest commitment in college basketball — literally and figuratively. Olivier Rioux’s decision to become a Spartan is about more than viral fame or Guinness records. It’s about embracing the challenge, trusting the process, and betting on development over hype.
Get ready, East Lansing. The next chapter of Spartan basketball is about to get a whole lot taller.