Olivier Rioux (age 18, born February 2, 2006) is a Canadian basketball player hailing from Quebec. Rioux currently attends IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he continues to develop his skills on the court.
Rioux gained international fame in 2021 when Guinness World Records officially recognized him as the tallest teenager globally, standing tall at an impressive 7 feet 6 inches (228 cm).
Since then, he has grown even taller, now measuring 7 feet 9 inches (236 cm) in height, a new record for Guinness.
His physical stature is underscored by his shoe size, an astounding size 20. Rioux’s exceptional height has naturally translated into prowess on the basketball court, where he has become known for his dominant presence.
Recently, Rioux committed to playing collegiate basketball for the Florida Gators, a decision that has drawn significant attention.
Videos showcasing his skills, including his ability to score without jumping due to his height advantage, have circulated widely online, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the basketball world.
Olivier Rioux is genetically tall
Olivier Rioux, born on February 2, 2006, in Terrebonne, Canada, comes from a family where height seems to be a genetic gift.
His father, Jean-Francois, stands tall at 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters), while his mother, Anne Gariepy, measures 6 feet 2 inches (1.85 meters).
Even Olivier’s older brother, Émile, contributes to the tall lineage, towering at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters).
Standing at an impressive 7 feet 9 inches, Olivier’s height has been a defining feature since a young age. According to his father, Olivier’s growth has been both rapid and constant, a fact that became evident early on.
Despite the challenges that come with such stature, like being eye level with his kindergarten teacher during a dance, Olivier has navigated his childhood with humor and determination.
Currently attending IMG Academy in Manatee County, Florida, Olivier is focused on honing his basketball skills.
His ambition is clear: he plans to join the Florida Gators team starting in the 2024-25 season and dreams of representing Canada in future Olympic Games, aspiring towards a professional basketball career.
Rioux started playing basketball at the age of 8
Rioux’s basketball journey began early, starting at the age of 8. His talent quickly gained notice when, at 12, a video of him dunking on an 8-foot rim went viral, catapulting his Instagram following to over 105K.
Representing Canada’s youth team marked another milestone, but it was his move to Real Madrid in Spain at the tender age of 12 that turned heads. Real Madrid, known for nurturing talents like NBA star Luka Doncic, saw potential in Rioux early on.
At 16, Rioux made headlines by becoming the world’s tallest teenager, a distinction recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records after his mother advocated for him. While Robert Wadlow holds the all-time record, Rioux claims the current record for living teenagers.
Choosing his next basketball chapter led Rioux to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he opted to develop his skills over returning to Real Madrid. Renowned for its top-notch facilities, IMG Academy has been instrumental in refining Rioux’s offensive abilities.
Coaches at IMG Academy commend Rioux’s prowess in ball handling, passing, and mid-range shooting, skills that are complemented by his imposing stature in the pick-and-roll game.
Olivier Rioux FAQs
Ques: What is Olivier Rioux’s height?
Ans: At present Olivier is 7 feet 9 inches tall
Ques: Who are Olivier Rioux’s parents?
Ans: Mother: Anne Gariepy and father: Jean-Francois.
Ques: Who is Olivier Rioux’s brother?
Ans: Émile Rioux.