BREAKING NEWS: 7- foot-6 centre from Canada, Olivier Rioux, gave five reasons on social media for his decision to leave the Florida Gators basketball team and revealed that he has Committed to Indiana Hoosier Basketball…..
In a surprising move that’s already making waves across the NCAA basketball landscape, 7-foot-6 Canadian centre Olivier Rioux announced on social media that he is leaving the Florida Gators men’s basketball program. The towering big man, known globally for his record-breaking height and developing skillset, revealed he has committed to the Indiana Hoosiers. Rioux, who has gained international attention for both his size and potential, shared five key reasons behind his decision to transfer, offering insight into a move that could shift the balance of power in college basketball.
Rioux cited “fit and future” as the first and most important reason for leaving the Gators. While he expressed gratitude to the Florida coaching staff and teammates, Rioux explained that his growth as a player demanded a system better aligned with his long-term goals. “Florida gave me a great start,” he wrote, “but I need a program where my size and style of play are fully utilized. I believe Indiana is the right fit to unlock my potential.” With Indiana’s track record of developing elite big men and playing a more traditional inside-out game, the move appears strategically sound for the Montreal native.
Secondly, Rioux pointed to the Hoosiers’ culture and fan base as a major draw. In his post, he spoke glowingly of the basketball-first mentality in Bloomington, highlighting the program’s rich history and passionate supporters. “The energy in Assembly Hall is unmatched. I want to play where the game is loved and expectations are high,” he stated. For a player used to international attention, Rioux seems eager to embrace the pressure and spotlight that comes with playing at one of college basketball’s most storied programs.
Academic and personal growth also factored into Rioux’s decision. He mentioned Indiana University’s academic resources and campus environment as ideal for balancing his studies with a demanding athletic career. “Education is huge for me and my family,” he wrote. “Indiana offers the right mix of support and opportunity.” This focus on both on- and off-court development suggests a maturity that extends beyond basketball—a trait often praised by those who have worked with him.
Another factor in Rioux’s transfer was his desire to play in a system that values the centre position. While Florida made strides in integrating Rioux into their offensive and defensive schemes, he felt limited in his role. At Indiana, he sees a clearer path to becoming a dominant interior presence. “I want to be more than a novelty. I want to be a force. Indiana sees that in me,” he shared. With his unique physical gifts and improving mobility, the Hoosiers could offer the perfect platform for him to evolve into a game-changing anchor in the paint.
Lastly, Rioux emphasized his relationship with Indiana’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Mike Woodson. “Coach Woodson believes in me, not just for what I am now but for what I can become,” Rioux explained. The staff’s communication, long-term vision, and commitment to his individual development played a key role in earning his trust. That kind of personal connection, especially for a player navigating the weight of global attention and massive expectations, was clearly meaningful.
Rioux’s move to Indiana sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in his basketball journey. As one of the most intriguing prospects in recent memory due to his size and evolving skill set, his presence in Bloomington is likely to generate massive interest from media, fans, and NBA scouts alike. While his time at Florida was brief, his decision to transfer suggests a player who knows what he wants and is ready to chase it with clarity and conviction. The Hoosiers, and the college basketball world at large, will be watching closely.
