Fox News Channel offers its audiences in-depth news reporting, along with opinion and analysis encompassing the principles of free people, free markets and diversity of thought, as an alternative to the left-of-center offerings of the news marketplace.
The average height of a men's basketball program will increase significantly next season. That's because Olivier Rioux, the tallest college basketball player ever, is transferring out of the University of Florida.
The 7-foot-9 20-year-old announced his decision in an Instagram post, where he thanked his coaches for 'believing in me, for trusting me, and for pushing me to develop every single day,' as well as 'trainers, managers, and support staff.' CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM Rioux said he took time 'to reflect on my jersey and what's best for my future.' 'It’s truly hard to put into words what these last two years and this experience has meant to me. From being raised in the province of Quebec back home in Canada, to representing this incredible program, wearing these colors and competing at the highest level has been one of the greatest honors of my life…' Rioux wrote. 'Winning the national championship last year was a dream come true for all of us. It’s something we worked for every single day, and to experience that moment together is something I will cherish forever. I will take these memories with me for the rest of my life. 'To the alumni and Florida Victorious, thank you for building the legacy that we’re so proud to represent. And to my teammates, my brothers, thank you for every moment, every battle, every joke, and every memory. The bond we share is untouchable. And most importantly, thank you to all Gator Nation. Your energy, passion, and support mean everything to me. You’ve stood by me through it all, and I’m forever grateful to be a part of this family. This time together will always hold a special place in my heart. Until we meet again. Thank you, merci.' UCONN'S BRAYLON MULLINS HITS GAME-WINNING 3-POINTER TO SHOCK DUKE, ADVANCE TO MEN'S FINAL FOUR Rioux played sparingly in two years with the Gators, redshirting as a true freshman during the team's national championship season and then getting on the court in mop-up duty this past season. He played 15 total minutes, finishing with seven points, six rebounds , and an assist. Rioux became the tallest person to ever play college basketball when he made his debut in a 104-64 victory over North Florida last November. He scored three games later, making a free throw after getting fouled. He also recorded his first rebound. Rioux is two inches taller than former NBA giants Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Bol, and three inches taller than popular big men Yao Ming, Tacko Fall and Shawn Bradley. Head coach Todd Golden gave Rioux the option of playing sparingly as a true freshman or taking a redshirt season and working on his game. Rioux chose the latter. After all four frontcourt players returned, Golden made it clear before the season that Rioux would only play late in blowouts. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP 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. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
US deploys Marines to Middle East amid Pakistan peace talks | Live Updates from Fox News DigitalPresident Donald Trump's administration began peace talks for the Iran war in Pakistan on Sunday as the U.S. continues to deploy forces to the Middle East.
Read more »
Fox News Host Warns Trump That ‘Tolerance’ for His War Is Running OutJohnny Jones delivered a message to the president on Sunday evening.
Read more »
MTG Brands Fox News ‘Fake News’ as MAGA Civil War DeepensAnn Coulter also compared the network’s Iran war coverage to its false 2020 election claims.
Read more »
Fox News reporter 'pulverized' in wild wrestling segmentAbby Hornacek was interviewing Olympic wrestler Kennedy Blades when she asked the pro to show offer suplex moves.
Read more »
Trump’s Favorite Fox News Host Raises Red Flags Over President’s Unpopular WarLaura Ingraham questioned whether Trump truly grasped the risks of his month-old Iran war.
Read more »
Jimmy Gracey's funeral mass held in Illinois hometown church | Live Updates from Fox News DigitalJimmy Gracey's funeral mass was held Tuesday morning in Elmhurst, Ill. after the 20-year-old University of Alabama student died during a trip to Barcelona two weeks ago.
Read more »