Rice High School Basketball: A Legacy in New York City
Located in the heart of Harlem, Rice High School has a long-standing reputation as one of New York City’s most respected high school basketball programs. Over the years, Rice has produced some of the city’s most talented basketball players, coaches, and teams, earning a spot as one of the greatest high school basketball programs in NYC history.
Rice High School was known for its rigorous academics and strong Catholic values, but it was its basketball program who would propel the school into the national spotlight. They became a powerhouse in the New York City basketball scene and some of the best players in NYC history suited up for the Rice Raiders, including Felipe Lopez, Andre Barrett, Kenny Satterfield and Kemba Walker… just to name a few. Lopez, in particular, was a superstar at Rice, leading the team to three straight city championships in the early ’90s.
Felipe Lopez of Rice HS
Throughout the 80’s & ’90s, Rice was the team to beat in New York City. The Raiders consistently ranked among the top teams in the city and the state, and even the country…dominating their opponents with their fast-paced, high-scoring style of play.
Kev Bell, Andre Barrett & Kenny Satterfield
Despite their success, Rice faced some challenges over the years. And ultimately The school was forced to close in 2011 due to financial issues., the community rallied behind the school and its basketball program, creating a scholarship fund to help Rice students attend other Catholic schools in the area.
In recent years, there have been efforts to revive the Rice basketball program. Former players like Kemba Walker and a few others have funded a program called the “Rice Legacy Fund,” which aims to provide financial and academic support to Rice students and athletes.
