What is Olivier Rioux's Outlook After 7'9" Freshman Doesn't Play for Florida vs. FSU?

The 7'9" Olivier Rioux made waves after becoming the tallest player to ever appear in a college basketball game on Nov. 6, appearing for just over two minutes for the Florida Gators at the end of their 104-64 win against North Florida.

He didn't register any stats.

On Tuesday, however, he didn't see the court during a 78-76 win over the Florida State Seminoles. And that will probably be the norm this season.

As the Associated Press reported over the weekend, head coach Todd Golden "made it clear that Rioux would play only late in blowouts, the result of having all four frontcourt players returning. But Rioux doubled down on wanting to be at Florida and welcomed the challenge of playing against Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, Rueben Chinyelu and Micah Handlogten in practice and behind them in games."

Rioux was a redshirt freshman last year and has had fans clamoring for him to see the court, given his unique height. He received a massive ovation when he was subbed in against North Florida.

"I talked to the guys at halftime when we're up 24, and I expressed to them the importance of getting off to a really good start so we can get some of the younger guys and some of the guys from down on the bench an opportunity to play and to get some rip," Golden told reporters. "Obviously the game was in our control and thought it would be a good opportunity to get him out there and get his first college experience, and I think he was pretty excited. It was pretty neat for him to finally see the floor."

The No. 10 Gators may have their share of blowouts this season, and a certain subsection of Florida fans probably will be eager to see Rioux in those contests. The next chance may be on Friday, Nov. 21 when Florida faces the MAAC's Merrimack Warriors, who lost to Auburn by a 95-57 margin last week.