Five-star junior MJ Rice discusses his recruitment and game
When the high school season tipped off, I was watching Oak Hill faceoff with Lake Norman High School. One of my players to watch in that matchup? MJ Rice. He immediately made an impact straight after the game tipped off.
Rice is a 6-foot-5, 210-pound wing and is rated as a five-star prospect (Stockrisers Grade: Five-star). He has elite offensive skills, can score on all levels but will give you tons of issues on the inside. He’s a very aggressive scorer that isn’t afraid to use his body but he can also shoot the three and the midrange. I’d also list him as elite in the physical aspect of things, he’s got grown man strength.
As far as his recruitment goes, Rice doesn’t currently hint at any favorites, and from a media or an outside perspective, there isn’t really a current favorite or a trimmed list.
At The St. James Invitational, he’s continued to be very impressive. He opened the event scoring 25 points and also grabbed a handful of rebounds. Has remained extremely consistent across the board this season and has brought elite toughness for a tough Oak Hill squad.
Rice discussed his recruitment, this season, and his game with Stockrisers.com.
Which schools are heavily involved in your recruitment?
“NC State, Louisville, Pittsburgh, and Wake Forest.”
Thoughts on these four programs that are heavily involved?
“The schools are great programs. They have a great coaching staff along with great players. As a program, they’re all great and each school comes with many opportunities. They have kept it real with me and I’m very big on loyalty and relationships.”
As far as a commitment timeline and reclassifying, what’s the latest?
“I’m not reclassing and I’ll commit at the end of the year.”
Let’s discuss the season, how do you feel it has gone so far?
“My season so far has been off to a good start, especially coming off an injury I feel like I’m really defying the odds. I’m really enjoying Oak Hill and I feel like I’m growing as a man here as well. Taking care of business but then being around some other great players that have the same type of drive and motivation that I do.”
How about your game, for anyone who hasn’t seen MJ Rice play?
“I’m a competitor. I can guard a 1-5 and I can score at all three levels. I’m a dog, so I’m very aggressive and I can create my own shot and shots for others. I can really open up the floor and attract all the attention and I can make plays for my teammates. I can really do it all with my size and ability to score and guard.”