Why Ohio State Should Target 7-Foot-9 Transfer Olivier Rioux

Being 6-foot-10, I’ve always had a natural curiosity about players who somehow still make me look up. Olivier Rioux is one of them.

I’ve had the chance to speak with him at each of the last two NCAA Tournaments, and what stands out isn’t just the size, it’s the steady growth.

Even in limited minutes, you could see the flashes. The footwork is getting cleaner. The timing is improving. And maybe most importantly, the confidence is certainly starting to show.

The dunk against Prairie View felt a little different. More emphatic. And with good reason.

Rioux spent his freshman season redshirting as Florida went on to win a national championship. The expectation was that more opportunities would follow. Instead, this season brought mostly brief appearances, often in late-game situations.

Which made that moment matter a little more. “It felt really amazing,” Rioux said of the dunk. “It’s really good.”

That growth has extended beyond Gainesville. Rioux has continued to play for Canada internationally, something that clearly matters to him. “It’s my sixth year representing Canada, and I’ve gotten a lot of experience,” he said. “I want to represent my country no matter what.”

Why Buckeyes should be interested

Gators' teammates echoed his impact. Alex Condon called him “a very valued member,” Thomas Haugh said he’s “a crowd favorite” and “good dude,” while Rueben Chinyelu praised his impact behind the scenes.

Those aren’t empty observations. They reflect the work that often goes unseen. Now, that development will continue somewhere else.

Rioux, affectionately known as “Ollie” or “Oli” by fans, handled his departure with class. In his transfer portal message, he thanked coaches, staff, and teammates while calling his time in Gainesville one of the greatest honors of his life.

And that’s where a program like Ohio State Buckeyes men’s basketball enters the conversation. Because what Rioux needs now isn’t just development, it's an opportunity. Ohio State offers both.

Under Jake Diebler, the Buckeyes are building a system centered on growth and versatility. They’ve shown a willingness to develop talent and provide the runway players need to evolve.

From a roster standpoint, the fit is intriguing. Ohio State has been seemingly always searching for interior size that can impact the game defensively while continuing to grow offensively. Rioux doesn’t just bring size, he brings improving mobility, and a willingness to work. That matters.

If Ohio State can get 10 to 15 quality minutes a game from Rioux next season, that’s a win.

Rioux may not be the piece that carries a team to a title, but he can be a disruptor, and blossom in a Big Ten environment in the years that follow.

Because what Olivier is becoming is no longer just a curiosity tied to his height. It’s a project turning into a player. And if you think he’s just a 7-foot-9 novelty, you’re not paying attention.

Next year needs to be an all-in type of year for the Buckeyes. They’re adding five-star, likely one-and-done talent in Anthony Thompson, which only heightens the urgency.

Rioux can deliver much more than a sideshow. Which is why where he lands next matters.

Just don’t let him land at Purdue and become the next Zach Edey.

If there are opportunities to add veterans and proven winners, Ohio State should take a serious look.

Now it’s just a matter of whether the Buckeyes see it the same way.