Prospect Profile
Following a long career at New Mexico State, Rice transferred to Texas for a graduate season where he really made a name for himself in draft circles. A highly impactful off-ball player, he not only produced at a high level in terms of box scores, but also did the little things to help the Longhorns win games. He was a key reason the team made such a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Known for his elite pump fake, Rice plays a methodical game that keeps his defenders off balance and allows him to make crafty moves to create space. He boasts a unique game that proved hard to defend. Primarily serving as a sixth man at Texas, he was a catalyst on both ends.
While he’ll play off the ball in the NBA, the 6-foot-4 prospect really had the ability to play a variety of positions. He’s not a natural lead guard, but does have some playmaking upside. However, he has been turnover prone in certain situations. There were times last season in which he was inconsistent as a shooter, but overall was pretty efficient from all three levels. He even knocked down 37.1% of his shots from beyond the arc as a Longhorn.
He isn’t an elite defender, but Rice can also hold his own on that end. At the NBA level, he should be able to take on either guard spot. He’s thin and will need to get stronger, but still is disruptive and smart on defense.
Although Rice will be 25 years old early in the upcoming season, he is a prospect that could be an impactful contributor in the right role. He was extremely impressive at G League Elite Camp, which earned him a spot in the NBA Combine. Over the past year, and especially more recently in the pre-draft process, Rice has proven he has the talent to play at the next level. On a Texas team that featured multiple future NBA prospects like Dillon Mitchell and Tyrese Hunter, he was often the most impactful player on the floor. Rice only started playing basketball as a sophomore in high school, so getting to this point is extremely impressive.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Potential Second-Round Pick in 2023 NBA Draft.
2023 Big Board
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