Despite the trend toward position-less basketball, tall players continue to leave a mark on the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. Their ability to protect the rim, secure rebounds, and dominate the paint remains crucial in March Madness.
Historical figures like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O’Neal have shown how towering players can lead teams to victory. Today, big men like Victor Wembanyama are more versatile, with many possessing shooting range and mobility that allows them to play beyond the post. As we count down the tallest players in the 2025 tournament, remember that while height is an advantage, it’s not the sole determinant of success.
Tallest Men’s College Basketball Players
Olivier Rioux (7-foot-9), Florida Gators
Background: Rioux hails from Canada as a three-star recruit and was previously recognized as the world’s tallest teenager. He joined the Florida Gators after attending IMG Academy.
Florida has a player that is 7-foot-9 😳
Olivier Rioux, originally from Canada but went to IMG Academy in Florida for HS, will become the “tallest player in college basketball history” when he finally debuts.
The freshman has yet to play a minute.pic.twitter.com/Aw37rhvnNX
— Tres Terrell (@TerrellTres) January 4, 2025
Playing Style: Rioux’s tall stature gives him a strong advantage in the paint, allowing him to dominate rebounds and block shots. His large physical presence does not limit his ability to move on the court as he continues to develop his overall gameplay.
Statistics: Rioux is still developing his stats as a freshman, but his height alone suggests potential for high rebounding and block numbers.
Trent Burns (7-foot-5), Missouri Tigers
Background: Burns is a freshman center from Cypress, Texas, who was ranked 97th in the RSCI Top 100 for 2024. The season started without Burns due to an injury that affected his foot.
Playing Style: As a freshman player, Burns demonstrates potential for becoming a paint force because of his large physique. He lacks true foot speed, but he shows impressive capability to change the direction of his opponent’s shots.
Statistics: The college statistics remain unclear due to injury since Burns has not played any games yet. The size of his body indicates he will develop into a reliable rebounder and shot-blocking defensive player when he returns to full health.
Daniel Jacobsen (7-foot-3), Purdue Boilermakers
Background: Jacobsen is a rising talent with international experience from the FIBA U18 AmeriCup. He brings mobility and a soft touch inside the paint.
Playing Style: Jacobsen is a quick learner with good positioning skills, which help him protect the basket. While his shooting needs improvement, he has the potential to become a versatile big man.
Statistics: Jacobsen averages 6.5 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, and his 1.5 blocks per game highlight his defensive potential.
Naheem McLeod (7-foot-2), Syracuse Orange
Background: McLeod is a skilled big man known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. He has been dealing with injuries but remains a key player when healthy.
Playing Style: McLeod uses his height and his swift movements to both control the paint through strength and attack mid-range shots while outside the area.
Statistics: McLeod averages 2.9 points and 1.1 rebounds per game.
Hunter Dickinson (7-foot-2), Kansas Jayhawks
Background: Dickinson is a skilled big man known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. He has been dealing with injuries but remains a key player when healthy.
Playing Style: Dickinson’s size and athleticism allow him to dominate the paint. His mobility also enables him to step out and shoot from mid-range.
Statistics: Dickinson averages around 16.9 points per game and 9.9 rebounds per game, as he is one of the key cogs for the Kansas Jayhawks.
Ryan Kalkbrenner (7-foot-1), Creighton Bluejays
Background: Kalkbrenner is one of the top big men in the Big East conference because of his scoring skills and defensive abilities.
Playing Style: Kalkbrenner defends opponents effectively because he uses his large frame and long-range shooting abilities. Through his high level of mobility, Kalkbrenner can match his speed to contemporary game requirements.
Statistics: Kalkbrenner has scored double-digit points during his season, averaging 19.1 points per game while collecting 8.8 rebounds. He has also maintained high field goal percentages and standout block numbers (2.7 per game).
KEEP READING: Top 10 Unforgettable March Madness Moments of All Time
These exceptionally tall athletes will definitely make their presence felt in the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The upcoming competition between these giants will offer an unforgettable experience as they claim their positions in the paint and beyond.
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