
via Imago
Olivier Rioux of IMG Academy looks for an open teammate in their game against Richmond Heights in the City of Palms Classic on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers.

via Imago
Olivier Rioux of IMG Academy looks for an open teammate in their game against Richmond Heights in the City of Palms Classic on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, at Suncoast Credit Union Arena in Fort Myers.
Olivier Rioux might not be a household name yet, but give it time — that’s about to change. Standing at a jaw-dropping 7 feet 9 inches, he’s not just the tallest player on the Florida Gators; he’s the tallest teenager in the world, according to Guinness World Records.
Olivier made it official when he shared on social media: “Yes, it’s for real, I now have the World Record Guinness for the tallest man under 18 at 7’5.3 or 226.9 cm. Be proud of yourself, it’s nature. #olivierrioux #wrg2022 #recordguinness #tallestkid.”
Even basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal had to look up to him in a now-viral TikTok skit, where Shaq jokingly “picked on” a shorter guy before realizing Olivier was standing behind him. Shaq’s caption? “Pick on someone your own size 😂” — and honestly, not many people qualify.
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But Olivier’s story isn’t just about his height. He’s got big dreams, aiming to inspire other tall athletes and even start his own basketball academy. Off the court, he’s into cooking, hip-hop, and charity work, making him one of the most well-rounded young athletes out there. With his sights set on the NBA, the future looks bright for this Canadian giant.
So how much is Olivier Rioux already pulling in with his NIL deals? And what were his high school stats like before he joined the Gators? Let’s dive into the numbers and his early life.
What are Olivier Rioux’s NIL deals as of 2025?
If you were hoping to hear about Rioux raking in millions from endorsement deals for extra-long beds or custom-sized sneakers, we hate to disappoint. As of March 2025, there is no public information available on any NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals signed by Rioux.
Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean he hasn’t landed any. NIL deals often take time to be announced, and Rioux may be in the process of securing partnerships that align with his brand. Thanks to his height and rising profile, he could easily attract sponsorships from sportswear companies, basketball brands, or even lifestyle companies looking for a unique edge.
He’s already building a solid following on Instagram, where he mixes game highlights with personal moments- which, honestly, is going to be a huge help. Just a few weeks ago, he posted about his basketball journey, thanking his coaches and giving a shoutout to @Fl_Victorious, the official NIL partners of the Florida Gators, for helping him along the way. Olivier wrote:
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Will Olivier Rioux's towering presence make him the next big thing in the NBA?
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“Here is my basketball journey through all the years. Thanks to all the coaches for their implications. Thank you to @Fl_Victorious for making this opportunity possible. Big things are on the horizon. Trust the process.”
That mix of humility and confidence makes him even more marketable, and if he keeps making plays with the Gators, expect some big-name deals to follow.
Which high school did Olivier Rioux attend?
Born on February 2, 2006, in Terrebonne, Canada, Rioux was destined to stand out—literally. His father, Jean-Francois, is 6’8″ and a former volleyball player, while his mother, Anne Gariepy, stands at 6’1″. His older brother, Emile, is 6’9″ and also played basketball. Safe to say that the Rioux family reunion isn’t the place to show up if you’re self-conscious about your height.
Rioux started playing basketball at just five years old, and by 12, he was already 6’10”. By the time he was 15, he held the Guinness World Record for being the tallest teenager on the planet. “We’re still not 100% sure why I’m so tall,” he once said. “Doctors could only explain it with the genetics that my family has.” With a height like his, basketball wasn’t just a good option—it was almost inevitable.
Olivier played high school ball at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida — the same powerhouse that’s produced some of the best athletes in the world. IMG’s no joke when it comes to training. Olivier’s time there helped him sharpen his game and adjust to playing against top competition.
He didn’t just hold his own — he dominated. Olivier played for Canada’s national team at multiple levels. He started with the 2021 FIBA U16 Americas Championship in Mexico, where he helped Canada snag a bronze medal. He averaged 8.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. Not bad for his first shot at international play.
A year later, he suited up for Canada at the 2022 FIBA U17 World Cup in Spain. He put up 2.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. His stats weren’t flashy, but his size and defensive presence made an impact. Then came the 2023 FIBA U19 World Cup in Hungary. Olivier averaged 3.2 points and 3.4 rebounds — solid numbers for a young center adjusting to tougher competition. In 2024, Olivier added another bronze to his collection at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup in Argentina. He finished with 4.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.
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And speaking of big moments — Olivier had one of the most effortless net-cutting moments you’ll ever see. While most players have to climb a ladder to cut down the net after a big win, Olivier just stood up, reached over, and cut it down like it was nothing. When you’re 7’9”, ladders are optional.
He was a three-star recruit coming out of high school, with several top programs trying to sign him. Florida won that battle, and now Olivier’s looking to make an impact with the Gators.
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What is Olivier Rioux’s net worth and salary?
Since college athletes don’t get paid directly to play, Olivier’s net worth isn’t exactly public knowledge — but NIL money changes the game. He’s already got the social media following and the viral moments (thanks, Shaq), so it’s only a matter of time before bigger deals start rolling in.
Bottom line: if Olivier keeps progressing on the court, his NIL value could explode. The NBA is already watching, and if he makes a splash with the Gators, those checks will get even bigger. For now, Olivier’s locked in on basketball — but the money? That’s coming soon enough.
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Will Olivier Rioux's towering presence make him the next big thing in the NBA?