New Delhi, April 30 -- Oliver Rioux, the 7-foot-9 center recognized as the tallest player ever in college basketball, has officially signed with the UC Irvine men's basketball program. Head coach Russell Turner announced the move on Thursday, bringing the Florida transfer to Southern California.

"We are excited to welcome Olivier Rioux to our program. Olivier is a high-character young man whose presence will elevate our team, our university, and our community. He embodies the values that have defined our success at UC Irvine," Russell Turner said.

"We've built a strong relationship with Olivier and his family over the years, dating back to his high school recruitment, and that familiarity gives us tremendous belief in who he is both on ...