Canadian basketball phenom Olivier Rioux has officially decommitted from the University of Florida and announced his new commitment to the University of Kentucky, sending shockwaves across the college basketball landscape.
The 7-foot-9 center, who has garnered international attention for his unprecedented height and improving skill set, made the announcement early Wednesday morning via social media, thanking the Gators program for their support but stating that he feels his “future is better aligned with the vision and development pathway at Kentucky.”
Rioux had initially committed to Florida in late 2023 and was seen as a cornerstone prospect for head coach Todd Golden’s future plans. His towering presence, soft hands, and increasingly polished footwork made him a fan favorite in Gainesville before he ever donned a Gators jersey. However, sources close to the situation indicate that a recent visit to Lexington significantly influenced Rioux’s decision, with Kentucky head coach Mark Pope reportedly delivering a compelling pitch centered on NBA readiness, high-level competition, and individualized development.
What This Means for Kentucky
This commitment is a massive recruiting win for Kentucky and Coach Pope, who is entering his second season looking to rebuild the Wildcats into a perennial powerhouse. Rioux brings immediate defensive intimidation, elite rim protection, and a potential to grow into a one-of-a-kind player with proper strength and agility training. While still a raw prospect in some areas, his upside is unmatched in college basketball.
Kentucky’s fanbase has already taken to social media to celebrate the acquisition, calling it one of the most unique signings in program history. With Rioux now in the fold, Kentucky’s 2025 recruiting class jumps significantly in national rankings, potentially into the top five.
Fallout for Florida
For the Florida Gators, Rioux’s decommitment is a tough pill to swallow. The loss leaves a significant gap in their incoming class and could alter their frontcourt rotation plans moving forward. Coach Golden is expected to return to the recruiting trail quickly, possibly looking at transfer portal options or late bloomers in the 2025 class.
Final Thoughts
Olivier Rioux’s flip from Florida to Kentucky is more than just a recruiting headline — it’s a reminder of how fast the college basketball landscape can change in today’s NIL- and portal-driven era. For Kentucky, it’s a statement of ambition. For Florida, it’s a challenge to reassert their recruiting identity.
Rioux is expected to join Kentucky for the 2025–26 season, where all eyes will be on the giant from Quebec to see just how far his potential can go in Big Blue Nation.
