Glen Rice, a sharpshooter known for his scoring ability, played in the NBA for 15 seasons. Born on May 28, 1967, in Flint, Michigan, Rice first gained national attention during his college years at the University of Michigan. He led the Wolverines to an NCAA Championship in 1989, earning the tournament's Most Outstanding Player award. His performance in college set the stage for a successful transition to the professional level.
Rice entered the NBA when he was selected as the fourth overall pick by the Miami Heat in the 1989 NBA Draft. During his time with the Heat, Rice quickly established himself as a reliable scorer. He averaged over 20 points per game in his final three seasons with Miami, becoming a central figure in the team's offense. His ability to shoot from long range made him a valuable asset, and he left the Heat as the franchise's all-time leading scorer at that point.
In 1995, Rice was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, where he continued to excel. His tenure with the Hornets marked the peak of his career. During the 1996-1997 season, Rice averaged 26.8 points per game, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. That same season, he was named the MVP of the NBA All-Star Game, scoring 26 points and setting a record for most points in a quarter with 20. Rice's scoring prowess helped the Hornets reach the playoffs multiple times, and he became one of the league's most feared shooters.
Rice's career took another turn when he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1999. Teaming up with stars like Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, Rice played a crucial role in the Lakers' championship run in 2000. Although his scoring numbers dipped as he adjusted to a new role, his experience and shooting ability were vital in the Lakers' success. Winning an NBA Championship added a significant achievement to his career.
After his stint with the Lakers, Rice played for several other teams, including the New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, and Los Angeles Clippers. While his later years in the league saw a decline in his scoring output, he remained a respected veteran presence. Rice retired from professional basketball in 2004, leaving behind a legacy as one of the best shooters of his era.
Throughout his career, Rice was known for his smooth shooting stroke and ability to score from anywhere on the court.
🏀