Olivier Rioux, widely recognized as the towering Montrealer on IMG Academy’s basketball team, is much more than just a basketball prodigy. Beyond the court, Rioux has a passion for the arts, particularly abstract aquarelle, and a keen interest in biology and astronomy. His belief in the existence of extraterrestrial life reflects his fascination with the vastness of the universe.
Standing at a remarkable 7 feet 9 inches and weighing 290 pounds, Rioux has outgrown many of the sport’s towering figures like Chet Holmgren and Bol Bol. His growth spurt over the past year, which added two inches to his already imposing frame, places him among a new generation of players reshaping the game.
Rioux draws inspiration from players like Victor Wembanyama, who, despite his 7-foot-4 stature, has worked on maintaining exceptional mobility and reducing the physical strain that typically plagues players of such height. “Wembanyama is helping to expand the game for tall players like us,” Rioux said, admiring the Frenchman’s dedication to his craft.
To maintain his physical health, Rioux engages in rigorous routines, including yoga and blood flow drills, which help him manage the demands of his unique physique. He also seeks guidance from seasoned professionals like former NBA player Bill Wennington, who shares his experiences and insights on navigating the challenges of being exceptionally tall.
Rioux’s basketball journey began at the age of eight when he was already 6 feet 1 inch tall. His rapid growth continued through his early teens, and by the sixth grade, he was a towering 6 feet 11 inches. Under the mentorship of coach Pascal Jobin, Rioux honed his skills, focusing on dribble hand-offs, setting screens, and passing with precision.
However, Rioux understands that height alone isn’t enough to succeed in the NBA. He is working on expanding his offensive repertoire, particularly shooting from beyond the paint, while also developing the versatility needed in modern basketball. He looks up to players like Dirk Nowitzki, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic, who have redefined the roles of big men in the sport.
At the U-16 FIBA games, Rioux averaged 8.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his potential. This summer, he represented Canada in the U-19 team, where he recorded seven rebounds in limited playing time. Now at IMG, Rioux is focused on further developing his game, splitting his time between the IMG Varsity Blue roster and the national team.
As he prepares to join the University of Florida, Rioux is excited about the future. Drawn to the university’s welcoming environment, he is eager to learn both on and off the court. While he is still undecided on his major, with interests ranging from physics and biology to art, Rioux is confident that he will thrive in the program.
“It felt like the right fit,” Rioux said of his decision to commit to Florida. “The people there are very mature, and I believe I can learn a lot from them.”
