Kevin Keatts believes MJ Rice is among most underrated transfer additions

MJ Rice didn’t get the opportunity that he was looking for as a freshman with Kansas. Through the use of the transfer portal, though, the former four-star was a Jayhawk loss that became a gain for Kevin Keatts and NC State this offseason.

Keatts spoke highly of Rice in a summer press conference from last week. He said that, considering Rice’s body of work, he was a very underrated portal addition for the Wolfpack that Keatts believes is going to pan out in Raleigh.

“Very talented, McDonald’s All-American,” Keatts said. “Obviously, he’s from Durham. (He) didn’t get the opportunity to play because they had a very good Kansas team with some very good players that played in front of him.”

“I, personally, think that he’s one of the most underrated transfers in the portal. He was a McDonald’s All-American and you really don’t hear a lot about him,” said Keatts. “Talented. I think he can play any guard position. He’s strong, he’s physical. He’s working really hard. A tremendous kid, has a great body, can score inside and out. I think he’s going to be really good.”

Rice played an average of just 7.5 minutes per game over 23 games at Kansas. In that limited time, he posted 2.2 points and a rebound per game. However, as a former Top-30 player nationally according to the On3 Industry Ranking, his lack of production last season is solely linked to his lack of opportunity in Lawrence.

That’s why Keatts is so excited to have Rice back in his home state. The Wolfpack is going to get to benefit from really letting him play for the first time and, from what he thinks, Keatts believes NC State could end up with one of the steals of the offseason because of it.

More on Rice’s commitment to NC State

Former Kansas small forward MJ Rice has committed to NC State, he announced on his Instagram on Wednesday. Rice, a 2022 signee with Kansas, will have multiple years of eligibility remaining with the Wolfpack.

“Feel good to be home,” Rice wrote in the post announcing his decision. Rice was a McDonald’s All-American and a four-star recruit coming out of high school.

God1st! Humbled and Blessed beyond measure! Blessed to be a part of a Great School, Program and ELITE coaching staff!! Lets Gooooooo WOLFPACK NATION!! https://t.co/MKUIKb1rnS

— Marquise (MJ) Rice (@MJrice_1) April 25, 2023

Originally from Durham, North Carolina, Rice chose Kansas over offers from Louisville, Providence and others. He was recruited by Duke out of high school but did not receive a scholarship offer.

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire.