Kiki Rice is riding the ultimate high. The UCLA point guard just capped her storied college career by leading the Bruins to their first-ever women's basketball National Championship, a storybook ending after falling in the Final Four a year ago. For Rice, a senior, this was the final shot at college glory, and she delivered in spectacular fashion.
Anyone watching the tournament couldn't help but notice the Bruins' unique energy. While other Final Four teams posed with stoic, game-face intensity, UCLA's team photo was a dynamic display of personality and joy—a vibe that carried right through their warmups. As Rice reveals, that infectious spirit wasn't an accident; it was a core part of their championship blueprint.
"That's something that's been a staple of our team the entire year," Rice explains. "Our coach, Cori Close, really values us not only competing but having fun and enjoying ourselves while we do it. It allows us to play free and stay loose." This philosophy of joyful competition became their secret weapon, transforming pressure into performance on the sport's biggest stage.
But for a competitor like Rice, the celebration quickly turns to the next challenge. The WNBA Draft on April 13 looms large, marking the thrilling next chapter in her basketball journey. "I'm really excited for that and to figure out where I'll end up," she says, her focus already shifting to the professional ranks.
Her momentum isn't confined to the court. Rice is already making major moves off it, recently announced as the first-ever ambassador for nail care brand MiniLuxe. In a powerful step, she's taking a financial stake in the company to support its mission of advancing pay equity for nail technicians. She also plans to collaborate on products designed for the unique needs of athletes' hands, blending performance with self-care.
Reflecting on the whirlwind of March Madness and her historic victory, Rice remains grounded in the moment. "It's been a crazy last few days, but it's so exciting. It's an incredible ending to my college career," she shares. "There's literally no better way to end it." From cutting down the nets to preparing for the draft and building her brand, Kiki Rice's game plan for success is clearly just getting started.