Rodney Rice Announces Transfer Decision

Rodney Rice Announces Transfer Decision

What Rodney Rice Brings to USC

Rice is a good scorer, averaging 12.2 points per game as a sophomore on a stacked scoring team. Derik Queen and Ja’Kobi Gillespie brought elite scoring, often taking opportunities away from Rice. However, he won’t have the same elite competition at USC, so Rice should thrive as a top-scoring option. He averaged 2.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Rice shot 37.4% from three and 43.4% from the field.

While his numbers were impressive, some expect a big leap next season. After playing in only eight games as a freshman, Rice developed well in his first full season. He was listed as a top-30 transfer in the class because of the potential he has, along with the potential for three more seasons of production. However, as with all players, he has already changed schools twice in two years, so he may be nothing more than a loan. Regardless, Rice is a good risk to take for USC.

Why Did He Choose USC?

A secondary reason could be what is described above. Rice has the chance to play at an elite level in an elite conference. He has already proven he can play in the Big Ten, but now he has the opportunity to be the star of the show. USC does have a five-star recruit, Alijah Arenas, for next season, but Rice will still have more opportunities to score than he did at Maryland. If Rice hopes to eventually go to the NBA, he will need to prove himself as a star.

However, in the days of NIL, USC will be in a lot of competitions. They are in an affluent area with rich alumni. That financial edge probably outweighed any other reason. USC hasn’t received commitments from other top transfers, so they likely had the most money to pay Rice than any other program. As a rising junior, who wouldn’t take the big payday?

Can USC Compete in the Big Ten?

The Big Ten is one of the deepest conferences. As much as USC has made some nice additions, they will need more than their current roster to compete for an NCAA Tournament bid. They’ve filled every hole in the roster, but the question is whether there is enough talent. Adding a couple of mid-major players and average players from power conference teams doesn’t turn the tide. With that money, don’t be surprised if they pull in another top transfer. For now, this team is far from being a legitimate contender in the Big Ten.