UCLA's Kiki Rice Shines in Sweet 16 Win, Showcases Signature Shoes

Teammates highlight Rice's custom Jordan Brand footwear after dominant performance.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:08am

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UCLA star Kiki Rice led her team to an 80-56 victory over Minnesota in the NCAA Women's Basketball Sweet 16, scoring 21 points. After the game, Rice's teammates drew attention to her custom Jordan Brand shoes, which feature the Bruins' blue, white, and yellow colors.

Why it matters

Rice is the first college athlete to sign an NIL deal with Jordan Brand, making her a trailblazer in the new era of name, image, and likeness rights. Her signature shoe line and on-court success have made her one of the most marketable players in women's college basketball.

The details

Rice shot 7-12 from the field to help the Bruins advance to the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament. In her on-court interview, Rice's teammates surrounded her and pointed out her stylish footwear, which has become a point of pride for the Jordan-sponsored star.

  • UCLA defeated Minnesota 80-56 on March 28, 2026 to reach the Sweet 16.
  • Rice signed a historic NIL deal with Jordan Brand in October 2022.

The players

Kiki Rice

A star guard for the UCLA Bruins women's basketball team and the first college athlete to sign an NIL deal with the Jordan Brand.

UCLA Bruins

The women's basketball team from the University of California, Los Angeles that reached the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“I think that's one of the best things about this team. We have so many talented players...we share the ball, we're selfless, we don't care whose game it is, and that's what makes it special.”

— Kiki Rice, UCLA Guard

What’s next

The Bruins will face the winner of the Stanford-Maryland matchup in the Elite Eight round, with Rice and her teammates aiming to capture the NCAA championship.

The takeaway

Kiki Rice's historic NIL deal with Jordan Brand has elevated her profile as one of the top players in women's college basketball. Her on-court success and signature shoe line have made her a trailblazer, inspiring the next generation of athletes to pursue their own unique brand partnerships.