Olivier Rioux Announces Decision to Leave Florida Gators for Duke
Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-6 center from Canada, made waves in the college basketball world after revealing on social media that he is leaving the Florida Gators basketball team. In a candid post, Rioux shared five key reasons for his decision and announced that he has committed to the Duke Blue Devils for the upcoming season.
Rioux’s departure from the Gators comes as a surprise to many, considering his potential and the team’s expectations. The towering center, who gained attention for his imposing presence on the court, explained his decision was influenced by a combination of factors.
In his post, Rioux first cited the importance of a fresh start and a new environment that better aligns with his goals and aspirations. He emphasized the opportunity to grow both as a player and a person, expressing that Duke’s elite program offers an ideal platform for his development.
Secondly, Rioux mentioned his desire to play for a program with a rich history of success and a reputation for producing NBA talent. The Blue Devils’ storied legacy, including multiple national championships and top-tier coaching, was a major draw for the Canadian big man.
Another factor Rioux highlighted was the personal relationship he has built with Duke’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Jon Scheyer. The connection with Scheyer, along with the staff’s commitment to developing his skills, played a pivotal role in his decision.
Rioux also shared his excitement about joining a team with strong competition, where he feels he can continuously challenge himself. The high level of talent at Duke would push him to improve daily, he said.
Finally, Rioux expressed gratitude for his time at Florida but explained that his decision was motivated by a desire to maximize his potential at Duke. Fans of both teams are eager to see how Rioux’s towering presence will impact the Blue Devils next season.
