For four-star guard Colin Rice, the visit to Nebraska wasn’t just another campus tour — it was a glimpse into what could soon become his new home.
The 6’4″ standout from Kansas arrived in Lincoln last weekend for his official visit, and from the moment he stepped off the plane, the Huskers made it clear: they want him, and they’re not holding back. From the glowing welcome at the airport to private film sessions and behind-the-scenes access to the program, Rice experienced a full-on red carpet treatment — Nebraska style.
“I could feel the energy from the jump,” Rice told reporters afterward. “Coach Hoiberg and the staff didn’t just show me the facilities — they showed me what it would feel like to be part of the family here.”
That family-first vibe was evident in every aspect of the trip. During his stay, Rice got a chance to connect with current players, sit in on team meetings, and even share meals with the coaching staff and their families. He wasn’t just seeing Nebraska basketball — he was living it.
“They weren’t trying to sell me a fantasy,” Rice said. “It was real. I got to see how the players train, how they recover, how the coaches interact with us day-to-day. That meant a lot to me.”
But Nebraska also made sure the visit wasn’t all business.
Rice and his family toured the newly updated Hendricks Training Complex, took in the sights of downtown Lincoln, and even got a sneak peek at the game-day atmosphere at Memorial Stadium — yes, even in June. The university’s push to emphasize not just athletic excellence but also academic support and personal development hit home with Rice, whose family puts a strong emphasis on education.
“I was impressed with how much they care about the whole student-athlete,” Rice said. “They showed me their academic support setup and how they help you grow off the court. That stood out.”
Behind closed doors, Rice sat down with Coach Fred Hoiberg for a heart-to-heart that, according to the young guard, “wasn’t just about basketball.”
“We talked about life, what he sees in me, and how he believes I can take my game to the next level under his guidance,” Rice shared. “He didn’t make promises. He painted a path.”
As for where Nebraska now stands in his recruitment?
“They’re definitely up there,” Rice said with a smile. “They made an impact.”
With official visits scheduled at other schools in the coming weeks, Rice isn’t ready to announce anything just yet. But if Nebraska was looking to leave a lasting impression, mission accomplished.
“I left with a lot to think about,” he admitted. “It felt right. We’ll see where things go.”
For now, Husker fans can only hope that the red carpet — and the red-hot pitch from Lincoln — was enough to bring Colin Rice back for good.
