Virginia Tech men’s basketball shared news on Tuesday that shocked many around the program: Rodney Rice, a former top-100 recruit, was transferring after his freshman season just two weeks before the season.

A 6-4, 205-pound guard from Clinton, Md., Rice was expected to have a big impact for the Hokies after playing in just eight games last season due to two separate injuries — a broken ankle (August 2022) and a broken finger (January 2023). Plans change, however, especially in today’s age with the transfer portal and NIL. There’s constant movement.

Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young didn’t give a reason why Rice made that decision when he met with reporters on Wednesday at the ACC Tipoff in Charlotte, referencing his Monday statement. He mentioned Rice walked into his office and thought a change of scenery was best for him, wishing him well.

The three players that represented the Hokies — senior guard Hunter Cattoor, senior forward Mylyjael Poteat and junior guard Sean Pedulla — all echoed that sentiment. They were disappointed to see Rice leave as they enjoyed being around with him and he was a talented basketball player, but he has to do what’s best for him at the end of the day.

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