On November 16, 2019, Etienne scored a freshman season-high 21 points, shooting 5-of-8 from three-point range, in a 103–62 win over UT Martin.[6] As a freshman, he averaged 9.4 points and shot 38.8 percent from the three-point line. In the offseason, Etienne improved his athleticism and strength.[7] On January 2, 2021, he scored 29 points in an 83–79 win over Ole Miss.[8] As a sophomore, Etienne averaged 16.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.0 steals per game, earning AAC co-Player of the Year honors. Following the season, he declared for the 2021 NBA draft, but ultimately returned to Wichita State.[9] In his junior season, Etienne averaged 14.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, earning a selection to the Third Team All-AAC.[10] On April 21, 2022, he declared for the 2022 NBA draft while foregoing his remaining college eligibility.[11]
His father, Max Etienne, played college basketball for Maryland.[15] His mother, Anita Gibson, is an Emmy-nominated make-up artist. Etienne is a nephew of former NBA player Marcus Camby and actor Omari Hardwick. He is a cousin of NBA player DeAndre Jordan. Etienne's childhood friend Armoni Sexton was shot and killed in 2015, and Etienne plays basketball to honor him.[2]