7-foot-9 Canadian Rioux sees game action as No. 3 Florida routs North Florida

7-foot-9 Canadian Rioux Debuts as No. 3 Florida Dominates North Florida

Alex Condon scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Micah Handlogten recorded his second double-double in as many games, leading No. 3 Florida to a commanding 104-64 victory over North Florida on Thursday night.

The game was so one-sided that 7-foot-9 walk-on Olivier Rioux, the world's tallest teenager, made his collegiate debut. The 19-year-old Gators freshman received the loudest ovation of the night when he entered the game with 2:09 remaining, although he did not touch the ball.

"Rioux didn’t even touch the ball."

After a narrow five-point loss to 13th-ranked Arizona, Florida introduced their national championship banner during pregame ceremonies before delivering a dominant performance in their home opener. The Gators showcased strong defense and looked like repeat title contenders.

Condon excelled inside, making up for being outplayed three nights earlier by freshman Koa Peat. He also contributed four assists, three blocks, and two steals. Florida outrebounded North Florida 64-24 and outscored them 66-22 in the paint.

Handlogten finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Thomas Haugh added 12 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. Florida improved to 12-0 all-time against the Ospreys and extended their home opener winning streak to 35 games.

North Florida, under new coach Bobby Keenen, struggled significantly in their season opener.

"Florida won their 35th consecutive home opener and improved to 12-0 against the Ospreys."

Author’s summary: Florida’s dominant win highlighted by Olivier Rioux’s debut and strong performances from Condon and Handlogten, signaling their intent as top contenders this season.

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TSN TSN — 2025-11-07

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