Shaq has a hilarious reaction to meeting 7-9 Florida freshman Olivier Rioux

On By Littum

Shaquille O’Neal isn’t used to looking up to too many people at 7-1. However, the legendary center was quite surprised to meet Florida basketball Olivier Rioux.

Shaq shared a video of his meeting with UF’s 7-9 freshman center on TikTok.

Rioux, from IMG Academy in Florida, made more headlines than a typical college basketball commitment when he announced his plans to play college basketball at UF on Nov. 8, 2023. He is recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest living male teenager.

Despite his height, Rioux was not a highly sought-after prospect. He received a 3-star rating, choosing UF over offers from Stetson and Florida Atlantic at the time of his commitment.

While fans have long been intrigued by the idea of ​​the 7-9 center playing for the Gators, they will have to be patient. The plan, according to head coach Todd Golden, is for Rioux to redshirt for the 2024-25 season. The Gators are doing fine so far without Rioux, starting the season 15-1, including back-to-back SEC wins over No. 1 Tennessee and John Calipari’s Arkansas team.

As for Shaq, he may see Rioux again before too long. Me’Arah O’Neal, Shaq’s daughter, plays for the Florida women’s basketball team, so expect the LSU legend to be seen in Gainesville from time to time.

Andrew OlsonAndrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collecting concert posters. He strongly supports the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.