Knoxville TN: After a great official visit, I’m shutting down my recruitment and I’ll be committing to the Tennessee Vols,” Rioux said via social media. 7-foot-9 center from Canada, 270 pound, Olivier Rioux, “I love Tennessee basketball and I wish to be among the superstars this university will talk about tomorrow as a legend. I’m committing soon…. read full epic news details below….

In a stunning turn of events, Canadian basketball phenom Olivier Rioux, widely recognized as the tallest teenager in the world, has officially announced his commitment to the University of Tennessee. Standing at a jaw-dropping 7 feet 9 inches and weighing 270 pounds, Rioux is one of the most talked-about prospects in college basketball. The towering center made headlines not long ago for turning down massive offers and staying loyal to Florida, but now he’s shifting gears and heading to Knoxville to join the Tennessee Volunteers.

After a great official visit, I’m shutting down my recruitment and I’ll be committing to the Tennessee Vols,” Rioux said via social media. “I love Tennessee basketball and I wish to be among the superstars this university will talk about tomorrow as a legend. I’m committing soon.”

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world. Rioux, who redshirted his freshman year at Florida, had been focused on developing his game behind the scenes. But after his visit to Tennessee and the experience of seeing the facilities, the coaching staff, and the culture, the decision became clear to him

The Volunteers are getting more than just a once-in-a-generation body; they’re getting a player with raw talent, unique physical gifts, and growing skills. While Rioux’s height naturally draws comparisons to players like Tacko Fall and Gheorghe Mureșan, scouts have noted his developing footwork, rebounding instincts, and improved touch around the rim. At just 18 years old, Rioux is still growing into his frame and potential, but his upside is enormous—both literally and figuratively.

Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes and his staff have shown an ability to develop big men and integrate them into a high-energy, defensively disciplined system. With Rioux, the Vols add a player who can immediately alter games just by stepping onto the court. His presence in the paint makes him a natural shot-blocking threat and a nightmare matchup for opponents.

The commitment is also a huge win for Tennessee’s recruiting program. In an era where NIL deals and transfer portal moves dominate the headlines, landing a global figure like Rioux not only boosts the team’s on-court potential but also its visibility and brand. His arrival will draw national media attention and elevate Tennessee’s status as a top destination for elite talent.

Rioux’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable. Originally from Canada, he began gaining attention as a pre-teen due to his height and eventually became a viral sensation. Now, as a college athlete, he’s poised to transition from a novelty into a legitimate basketball force.