Virginia Tech announces guard has left the program ahead of new season

College Hoops Presented by

Virginia Tech men’s basketball will be without Rodney Rice this upcoming season.

Head coach Mike Young broke the news Tuesday that Rodney Rice will no longer be with the program.

Rice shared with Young the desire the step away from the Hokies’ program. Young wished the player and his family all the best.

“Rodney Rice recently shared with me his desire to step away from our program,” said Young. “While his departure is unfortunate, we wish Rodney and his family all the best in the future.”

Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young announces #Hokies guard Rodney Rice is leaving the program.

“Rodney Rice recently shared with me his desire to step away from our program. While his departure is unfortunate, we wish Rodney and his family all the best in the future.”

— David Cunningham (@therealdcunna) October 24, 2023

Rice was a former 4-star combo guard via the 2022 class. He hailed from Clinton (Md.) DeMatha Catholic. Rice was the No. 13 CG and No. 3 prospect in the state in his class, per the 247Sports Composite.

Rice appeared in eight games for the Hokies last season. He averaged 7.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game.

Virginia Tech opens the 2023-2024 campaign against Coppin State on Nov. 6. Tipoff will be at 8 p.m. ET via ACC Network Extra/ESPN+.