Gators' Giant: Rioux's March Madness Debut

0:00Reporting from the Daily News, now I'm Corey with the story with the latest in Durham. University of Florida Center Olivier Ryu made history in the NCAA March Madness Tournament as the tallest player ever at 7 feet 9 inches. The 20-year-old sparked excitement during the Gator's dominant 114-55 win over Prairie View A&M on Friday, March 20th, 2026. He entered late in the blowout and capped it with a put-back dunk right before the buzzer. Now in his second season, Ryu was part of Florida's national championship squad last year. Team mates praise how he manages the crowd's chance and pressure, staying cool under the spotlight. Fans love seeing the Canadian star dominate with his unmatched reach. His extraordinary height earned him a Guinness World record as the tallest teenager at age 16, thanks to strong family genes. His dad stands six, feet eight, mom six feet two, and brother six feet nine.

1:00Ryu has hooped dreams since age five and turns opponent stares into fuel on the court. The Gator's advanced to face Iowa on Sunday, March 22nd, with his towering talent ready for more.