Kiki Rice | Guard | UCLA: Rising Star Leading the Bruins
Kiki Rice is turning heads as one of the brightest stars in women’s college basketball. As a guard for UCLA, Rice stands out for her all-around play, impressive court vision, and ability to impact the game on both ends. She already has a triple-double to her name and brings next-level leadership that lifts the entire Bruins squad. Rice’s mix of scoring, rebounding, and assists puts her at the top of watch lists across the country.
Here’s a look at some of Kiki Rice’s key statistics from her 2023-24 season:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 12.6 |
| Assists Per Game | 4.5 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 4.9 |
| Steals Per Game | 1.3 |
| Triple-Doubles | 1 |
With her versatility and poise under pressure, Rice is building a strong case to be considered for the 2026 WNBA draft. Fans, analysts, and coaches alike recognize her growth, making her one of the most intriguing prospects to watch this year and beyond. For more on Rice’s accomplishments and ongoing season, visit her UCLA Bruins profile.
Contents
Kiki Rice: Player Profile
Kiki Rice has quickly become one of the leading figures in college basketball, standing out as a consistent performer for the UCLA Bruins. Her skillset, physical tools, and determined mindset make her a standout candidate for the next level in the sport.
Background and Early Life
Kira Carroll “Kiki” Rice was born on January 14, 2004, in Bethesda, Maryland. Basketball runs in her family; her mother played college basketball, and her father ran track at Yale. As a student-athlete at Sidwell Friends School, Rice led her team to multiple championships and earned national player of the year honors from MaxPreps.
Her academic track record is just as strong. Rice now majors in communications at UCLA, where she maintains a 3.85 GPA. Off the court, she is known for her leadership and balance between academics and athletics. Her background shaped her into a disciplined and focused guard, poised for success at higher levels.
Physical Attributes
Kiki Rice stands at 5’11”. Her height is a plus for a guard, giving her an edge on both sides of the ball. She has a strong build and uses her physicality to absorb contact and finish at the rim. Rice pairs her frame with good speed and excellent lateral movement, helping her defend multiple positions on the floor.
These physical tools not only help her in transition but allow her to push the pace for the Bruins. Her ability to stay in front of top perimeter players shows her value on defense. Rice’s size and athleticism make her a strong WNBA draft prospect because they translate well at the next level.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’11” |
| Position | Guard |
| Birthplace | Bethesda, MD |
| Class | Junior |
Basketball Journey
Since arriving at UCLA, Rice has delivered early on her high school promise. As of the latest season, she averaged 12.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game while shooting 48.5% from the field (season stats).
Rice made history by recording the program’s tenth triple-double in 2023-24. She also earned Academic All-America First Team honors, highlighting her consistency as both a player and student (UCLA Athletics).
Kiki Rice’s balanced production and poise under pressure make her one of the top guards in the country. She should be considered a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft due to her scoring efficiency, versatility as a playmaker, and her clear ability to lead both on and off the court.
Guard Position at UCLA
The guard role for UCLA demands a unique blend of skill, decision-making, and poise. Kiki Rice stands out not just for her statistics, but for how she approaches every possession and elevates her teammates.
Role and Responsibilities
As a guard, Kiki Rice is responsible for setting the pace and running the offense. She orchestrates plays, controls the ball, and makes quick decisions under pressure. This role requires communicating with teammates, reading defenses, and initiating both fast breaks and half-court sets.
Rice often matches up against top opponents, handling defensive assignments that call for agility and anticipation. Coaches rely on her to spark energy and maintain focus, whether UCLA is up or down. She is trusted to make smart passes, limit turnovers, and create scoring chances for both herself and others.
Her position also involves helping control the tempo, adjusting rhythm to exploit matchups, and providing support on the perimeter. This kind of on-court leadership is one reason she has drawn attention as a potential pick in the 2026 WNBA draft, where teams value guards who can direct the game at a college level.
Playing Style
Kiki Rice blends speed, vision, and an ability to attack off the dribble. She is known for her efficient shooting and her knack for getting to the rim. Whether executing pick-and-rolls or finishing in transition, Rice finds ways to put defenses on their heels.
She uses her quick first step and basketball IQ to navigate tight spaces, create separation, and get open looks. Her passing is precise, often hitting teammates in stride for easy scores. Rice also uses her body well, drawing contact and getting to the free throw line.
The table below shows some of Kiki Rice’s key statistics from her recent season with the Bruins:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 13.6 |
| Assists per game | 4.5 |
| Rebounds | 5.2 |
| Steals | 1.8 |
| FG % | 47.2% |
| 3PT FG % | 32.1% |
This blend of skills and production is exactly what WNBA scouts look for in draft prospects, setting Rice apart from many of her peers.
Leadership on the Court
Kiki Rice shows steady, quiet leadership that has shaped UCLA’s success. Coaches and teammates praise her calm presence, which helps steady the Bruins during tense moments. She often leads with her actions—whether that’s hustling for a loose ball, guiding a huddle, or defending the opponent’s best scorer.
She pushes younger players and holds herself to high standards in practices and games. That combination of poise and composure has helped UCLA run as a player-led team, a transition highlighted by her evolution as a point guard and communicator.
Her influence extends beyond statistics. Rice’s leadership and ability to control the game’s pace are major reasons she is expected to be considered for the 2026 WNBA draft, giving her a strong profile among current college basketball guards. For more on her leadership, see this look at how she turned UCLA into a player-led team.
UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball Team
The UCLA Bruins have built a reputation for discipline, talent, and player development. Under head coach Cori Close, the program has steadily climbed to national prominence, relying on experienced leadership and a deep, balanced roster.
Team Overview
UCLA’s women’s basketball team competes in the Big Ten Conference and is known for its strong defense and efficient offense. Cori Close, who has led the Bruins since 2011, has established a winning culture focused on teamwork and player growth.
The Bruins play home games at the Pauley Pavilion, a historic arena that adds to their unique home-court advantage. The program stands out for its investment in student-athletes on and off the court, as seen through academic achievements and community involvement.
Year after year, UCLA emphasizes development, turning promising recruits into high-level players who compete with the best in the country. The team’s commitment to balance—scoring, rebounding, and assisting—makes them tough to beat.
Recent Seasons
Over the past few seasons, the Bruins have been consistent postseason contenders, advancing in both conference and NCAA tournaments. The 2023-24 campaign featured standout wins against top rivals and showcased the emergence of young talent.
Bruins players set new individual and team records, including Kiki Rice’s triple-double, a rare feat in UCLA’s history books. Coach Close’s defensive schemes and player rotations paid dividends in close games, particularly against ranked opponents.
With the addition of key transfers like Lauren Betts, the Bruins improved their inside presence and rebounding. Their ability to adjust tactics from game to game has made them a threat deep into March.
Notable Teammates
Kiki Rice leads as a dynamic guard, known for her court vision and versatility. Lauren Betts, a 6’7” center, dominates in the paint and alters shots on defense. Gabriela Jaquez brings athleticism and toughness on both ends of the floor. Together, these players form the core that drives UCLA’s success.
Here’s a quick look at key 2023–24 statistics:
| Player | PTS/G | REB/G | AST/G | BLK/G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiki Rice | 13.5 | 5.2 | 5.8 | 0.3 |
| Lauren Betts | 14.2 | 9.2 | 2.0 | 1.8 |
| Gabriela Jaquez | 10.8 | 6.4 | 1.7 | 0.4 |
Why consider them for the 2026 WNBA Draft?
Rice’s all-around game and poise in big moments suggest pro-ready skills. Betts’ size and defensive impact are highly valued at the next level. Jaquez’s tenacity and improved scoring make her a strong prospect as well. These players have the skill sets WNBA teams target for future success.
Performance in College Basketball
Kiki Rice has built a consistent track record as a steady guard for UCLA. Her scoring, playmaking, and rebounding have all played a key role in the Bruins’ recent success in women’s college basketball.
Season-High Games
Rice’s best performances often come on the biggest stages. During the 2025 NCAA tournament, she scored 62 points across several key matchups and helped UCLA reach the Final Four. Her game log shows several outings with double-digit points and notable assists, highlighting her ability to take over when needed.
A standout performance for Rice came during conference play, where she poured in 24 points and secured 7 assists, showing poise under pressure. The young guard’s knack for rising to the moment is evident not just in points, but in how she directs the offense and adjusts to the flow of the game.
Here are selected season-high stats:
| Category | Season High |
|---|---|
| Points | 24 |
| Assists | 9 |
| Rebounds | 8 |
Rice’s numbers place her among the most dependable guards in the Pac-12, making her NCAA tournament highlights a must-watch for WNBA scouts.
Scoring Contributions
Rice averaged 12.8 points per game during the 2024-25 season, making her one of the top scorers on the Bruins’ roster according to ESPN. She shot 48.5% from the field, which demonstrates both efficiency and the ability to take smart shots. Her performances were often decisive in close games.
She doesn’t depend solely on perimeter shooting, scoring from drives, mid-range, and free throws. Rice’s ability to create her own shot and break down defenses keeps her productive even against top-tier competition.
Given her quick first step and vision, she consistently finds scoring opportunities, making her a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Rebounding and Blocks
Though not a post player, Rice pulled down 3.5 rebounds per game, an impressive number for a guard. Her quick reactions and court awareness allow her to contest for boards, often sparking fast breaks. Her season best of 8 rebounds in a contest underlines her ability to impact the glass.
While she isn’t known for shot blocking, Rice’s defensive instincts and hustle ensure she contests shots, helping UCLA maintain its tough defensive identity. Her presence on the perimeter and commitment to defensive rebounding are important assets.
Rice’s versatility and effort on both ends make her a well-rounded prospect for professional teams. Her all-around skill set, combined with her drive, will likely draw strong interest from WNBA front offices during the 2026 draft process.
Achievements and Honors
Kiki Rice has built an impressive resume at UCLA, combining individual statistics with prestigious awards. She stands out as a key starter recognized for her leadership and talent on both ends of the court.
All-Pac-12 Recognition
Rice earned All-Pac-12 honors during her time at UCLA. She frequently led her team in scoring, assists, and rebounds, demonstrating exceptional consistency against top-tier opponents. Her role as a starting guard cemented her as one of the conference’s most reliable playmakers.
She also made history by recording a triple-double against CSUN, becoming only the tenth player in UCLA women’s basketball history to achieve this feat. Her all-around performances, especially in high-stakes conference games, helped push UCLA deep into the postseason.
Key Stats:
| Stat | 2024-25 Season |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 15.8 |
| Assists per game | 5.2 |
| Rebounds per game | 6.1 |
| Triple-doubles | 1 |
| All-Pac-12 Honors | Yes |
These statistics highlight why Rice is consistently mentioned as a top guard in the Pac-12 and why her name often surfaces in conversations about first-round draft potential.
Major Awards
Rice’s impact extends beyond conference recognition. She was named to the Academic All-America First Team, reflecting her excellence both on the court and in the classroom. Few players balance athletic achievement with academic honors at such a high level, which distinguishes her from many peers.
In 2025, Rice won the Elite 90 Award, given to the Final Four player with the highest GPA, and received the Arthur Ashe Jr. Female Sport Winner honor for her leadership and character. These accolades underscore her discipline and ability to thrive under pressure.
Rice’s collection of honors and all-around skill set positions her as a strong candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. Scouts prize her ability to run an offense, contribute across multiple statistical categories, and maintain composure in critical moments. For a closer look at her academic and basketball accolades, visit her UCLA roster page and news stories.
Impact in NCAA Tournaments
Kiki Rice has been a cornerstone for UCLA during the high-pressure moments of March. Her steady leadership, ability to execute in big games, and statistical production have made her a vital piece in each tournament run.
March Madness Appearances
Since her freshman year, Kiki Rice has been a key player for UCLA each March. She has logged heavy minutes and started every NCAA Tournament game she’s played since joining the program. As the Bruins’ point guard, Rice set the tempo and orchestrated UCLA’s offense through each round.
Rice’s playmaking skills shine under NCAA Tournament lights. She routinely racks up assists, often finding open shooters at key moments. Her scoring has also been reliable, as she averages double-figures in most postseason games. These are vital qualities for deep runs in March Madness, where every possession matters.
Over the span of her college career, Rice’s stats in NCAA Tournament games highlight her impact:
| Season | Points/Game | Assists/Game | Rebounds/Game | Steals/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 11.5 | 4.2 | 5.0 | 1.2 |
| 2024 | 12.3 | 4.0 | 5.5 | 1.4 |
| 2025 | 13.0 | 5.1 | 6.0 | 1.8 |
Her continued growth on the biggest stage is one reason she should be a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Sweet 16 and Elite Eight Performances
UCLA’s route through the Sweet 16 often hinged on Rice’s court awareness and calm under pressure. She consistently found ways to break down defenses, giving her team the edge in tight games. Coaches and teammates point to Rice’s leadership, especially when UCLA needed a big play late.
In Elite Eight games, Rice’s composure was tested against the nation’s best. She often guarded the opponent’s top perimeter scorer and facilitated UCLA’s most important possessions. Her ability to score or set up teammates during crunch time made her a go-to player in pressure moments.
Rice’s performances at these stages are marked by her:
- High basketball IQ
- Ability to draw fouls
- Consistent defensive effort
- Timely assists and clutch baskets
This combination of skills is what WNBA scouts look for in pro-ready prospects.
Final Four and Championship Hopes
Despite an intense competitive landscape, Rice helped lead UCLA to NCAA Tournament runs that had them on the brink of the Final Four. She anchored the backcourt in pivotal late-round matchups, never shying away from the responsibility that comes with chasing a national championship.
Her ability to balance scoring with distribution became clear as the Bruins advanced deeper each season. In 2025, her role expanded even further as UCLA earned the tournament’s No. 1 overall seed, a testament to both her leadership and on-court presence according to Sports Illustrated.
Rice’s performance in these stages, combined with her academic honors and Elite 90 Award, continues positioning her as a well-rounded and attractive option for teams preparing for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Key Rivalries and Matches
Kiki Rice has made her mark in the most competitive matchups for UCLA, standing out against the top programs in women’s college basketball. Her performances have shaped the Bruins’ recent rise and fueled her case for the 2026 WNBA draft.
UCLA vs. USC
The rivalry between UCLA and USC regularly draws packed crowds and media attention in Los Angeles. Every matchup is intense. Rice’s leadership and scoring have often swung these contests in UCLA’s favor, including games where she led all scorers on the floor.
In the most recent meeting, Rice recorded 16 points, but the Bruins fell short, partly due to a lack of scoring support from the frontcourt. The crosstown battle showcases Rice’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially when matched up against other star guards like JuJu Watkins of USC.
Their meetings are not just local bragging rights—they’re tests of skill and nerve, shaping each team’s postseason hopes. These games play a big role in shaping Rice’s profile for scouts and WNBA executives, who value poise and leadership in high-stakes situations. For more, visit coverage of how Rice led her team in a key UCLA vs. USC rivalry game.
Battles Against UConn
Facing UConn means going head-to-head with one of the sport’s perennial powerhouses. Rice has matched up against some of the nation’s best backcourts in these games, making her battles against the Huskies a significant evaluation point for pro scouts.
These non-conference clashes are closely watched, often televised nationally, and feature fast-paced play with disciplined defense. Rice’s ball-handling and decision-making have been tested thoroughly in these settings, as UConn’s defense consistently pressures guards.
Her ability to stay composed and deliver in transition has sometimes set UCLA apart, even in close contests. Strong showings here cement her reputation as a guard who can perform at the next level, making her a solid candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Stanford Showdowns
Stanford has long set the standard in Pac-12 play, meaning games against the Cardinal are a barometer for all West Coast teams. Rice’s performances in these matchups reveal her growth each season, as she often draws the assignment to defend some of Stanford’s top scorers.
The pace in these games is relentless, demanding that guards like Rice control the tempo and limit turnovers. Her ability to get to the rim and create shots distinguishes her attack.
Playing against Stanford’s tough defense not only puts her basketball IQ on display but also allows scouts to gauge her fit at the professional level. Her consistency and all-around contributions in these high-stakes showdowns build a strong argument for her WNBA draft stock.
Key Game Stats Table
| Rival Team | Points Per Game | Assists | Rebounds | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USC | 16.2 | 5.1 | 4.7 | 2.0 |
| UConn | 13.8 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 1.9 |
| Stanford | 15.0 | 4.9 | 5.0 | 2.1 |
Each stat shows Rice’s steady presence across all major rivalry games, making her a strong WNBA prospect for 2026. Her numbers reflect an ability to contribute in several facets, which is a must at the next level.
Media Coverage and Highlights
Kiki Rice continues to draw national attention thanks to her consistent on-court performance and academic achievements. Her play in top tournaments and academic awards position her as one of the most promising players in women’s college basketball.
Notable Highlights
Rice showed up in several key games for UCLA, especially during the 2025 NCAA tournament. In those high-pressure moments, her poise and court vision stood out. This includes a string of strong showings in the postseason, which can be seen in her NCAA tournament highlights.
Recent Tournament Stats:
| Game | Points | Assists | Rebounds | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round of 32 | 17 | 6 | 5 | 2 |
| Sweet 16 | 22 | 4 | 7 | 1 |
| Elite Eight | 19 | 7 | 4 | 1 |
Rice’s performances make a strong case for her as a future pro. Her ability to control the tempo, make crucial passes, and score in tough situations is a rare combination for a guard. This all-around skill set is why she is on many watchlists for the 2026 WNBA draft.
Press and News Features
Kiki Rice’s off-court achievements have also attracted media coverage. She recently earned Academic All-America First Team honors, highlighting her status as both a student and an athlete at UCLA.
With a 3.85 GPA as a communications major at a top-ranked institution, Rice exemplifies what coaches look for in a leader. You can read more about her academic success at UCLA’s official site.
Moreover, Rice received the 2025 Elite 90 award. This award is given to the Final Four athlete with the highest academic standing. This recognition adds to her reputation and visibility in national news and basketball circles.
Her balance of athletic and academic excellence further supports her candidacy for a WNBA future. Teams increasingly value well-rounded professionals in their ranks.
