Battling Blood Cancer, a Deep Dive into Myles Rice’s Inspiring Journey

The Washington State Cougars guard Myles Rice has been all guns blazing since his return to the court. He has been miraculously pulling his team to unexpected victories and raising the benchmark in the process. However, his story has its own set of bumps to deal with.

Not everything was working according to the plans last season. In fact Rice had the most horrible time since he had to sit out for the entire year as he was diagnosed with cancer. Today, his story is of a valiant return that is a motivation to millions and ignites a sense of passion even among those who are not basketball aficionados.

The Backstory

Rice had a lump in his neck that was noticed by his aunt in September 2022. Initially, Rice didn’t pay much attention to it but then underwent a biopsy when things took a far more serious turn.

He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma a condition in which the white blood cells form tumors. Miles was under spotlight during the ‘Suits and Sneakers’ week, an event in which coaches wear athletic shoes along with their suits to raise awareness about cancer.

Miles reported as per Cronkite News that his first two treatments “were rough,” but wanted to return the court for the next season.

Miles then shared the auspicious news everyone was waiting for. He had won his battle against cancer in March. Though, it lasted for five months, Rice made the better of it and came back with more enthusiasm and excitement. The Washington State Athletics mentioned the same on their social networking site X.

“Your strength, determination and positive energy is truly inspiring. A true leader on and off the court, as well as (WSU Men’s Basketball’s) biggest hype man! “ Washington State Athletics stated as per Krem2.

A message from Myles Rice to the Cougar family.

#GoCougs |

#WAZZU pic.twitter.com/716doKHDOD

— Washington State Men's Basketball (@WSUCougarsMBB) September 29, 2022

The redshirt freshman guard had to miss the entire 2022-23 season to receive treatment and thankfully he entered the court. The Columbia-born made complete utilization of the redshirt option during his first year at the WSU in 2021-2022 season.

The Infamous Return

He was quite a show during his High School years and as a senior was considered among the top 50 senior point guard in the country by experts.

As per CBS Sports, the only college offer Rice got was from the Washington State Cougars. And the WSU investment paid off when Rice got back to the hardwood and displayed his exemplary skills.

The 6-feet-3-inch guard persistence and dedication paid off when he touched double figures in points in 6 out of 8 matches. His career highest came against the Eastern Washington Eagles when he besotted a whopping 28 points with 2 rebounds and an equal number of assists. He has a 9-for-15 field goal tally and a 75% three-pointer percentage.

Rice followed that up with a spellbound performance against the Portland State Vikings, smashing 19 points with 5 rebounds. He smoked a cent percent free throw percentage and a 7-for-14 field goal tally.

His display was so smooth that he scripted history becoming clinching the first PAC-12 award by any WSU player this season. He was named the Pac-12 freshman of the week.

His story of comeback has been exceptional and will be remembered by athletes from all fields. While it stuns many, it also inspires a lot of others.