<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Two years ago the Mavericks went into summer league with a good feeling about an undrafted rookie named Marquis Daniels. This summer's version could be Darius Rice. The buzz on the wiry 6-foot-10 forward has been positive, and Rice has a chance to stick in October. "He's got a shot,"" Mavericks coach Avery Johnson said Wednesday after his squad opened the Reebok Vegas Summer League with a 89-66 victory over New Jersey. Rice's shot certainly won't keep him from being invited to training camp. His quick and smooth release impressed former Mavs coach Don Nelson, who was in attendance Wednesday. But, as is the case for just about anyone who expects to play for Johnson, it will take a lot more than a nice stroke to land a job. "He's got to play defense," Johnson said. "But it's not a bad skill in the NBA to be able to make shots consistently." Rice scored 12 points in 15 minutes against New Jersey, knocking down 4 of 6 from the field, including 2 of 3 from beyond the arc, and grabbed two rebounds. His skill set is obvious. The nephew of NFL receiving great Jerry Rice, the 22-year-old is long, agile and quick for his size. Concerns center on his strength and rebounding ability. Rice led the University of Miami in scoring each of his four seasons (2000-2004) and spent last season in the National Basketball Developmental League. He averaged 10 points and four rebounds for the Fort Myers Flame.</div> Source
I really like the sound of this guy. 6-10, a good form, and sounds like he has great quickness he could be a nice pickup/backup for the Mavs down the road, but it sounds like he has much to work on before he makes a name for himself.
