Rice freshman point guard Dylan Ennis and forward Jarelle Reischel plan to transfer from the basketball program, coach Ben Braun said Monday.
“Dylan and Jarelle both made positive contributions to our team success this year as freshmen,” Braun said. “I am obviously disappointed they have expressed their desire to transfer, however, I want to support them in their future plans and wish them success.”
Ennis said his decision was based on moving closer to his family in Brampton, Ontario, just outside Toronto.
“I’ve been away from home a long time,” Ennis told the Houston Chronicle. “I was just thinking I want my family there. They were only able to see three games (this season) and that really bothered me because the distance is so far.”
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Rice point guard Dylan Ennis set a school freshman record with 144 assists this season. (Rice University photo)
Ennis, who averaged 8.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.1 assists, was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman team this season. His 144 assists set a school freshman record.
Ennis said he informed Rice coach Ben Braun and has received the necessary paperwork to transfer.
“I had a great time at Rice,” he said. “I played a lot as a freshman and learned a lot as a freshman.”
Ennis said he has not put together a list of possible schools but said the goal is to get closer to home.
“It’s not a sure thing. You never know where you can end up,” he said. “I’m really open to all schools right now. If the possibility comes I can get closer to home I will definitely try to do that.”
Asked if he was unable to get closer to home if he would remain at Rice, Ennis said: “I won’t be in a Rice uniform next year.”
Reischel, who is originally from Germany before moving to Point Pleasant, N.J., averaged 5.7 points and 2.7 rebounds.
“I would like to thank Rice University and the basketball staff for their support both athletically and academically throughout my freshman year,” Reischel said. “I wish the program the best. I’m hopeful to attend a school closer to home.”
