This article was researched and coauthored by Janai Williams.
One of the stars of the 2026 national championship UCLA Bruins squad has been injured shortly into her professional career.
Kiki Rice, who was the sixth overall pick for the Toronto Tempo earlier this year, had to be helped off the court following a collision with New York Liberty center Jonquel Jones.
While attempting a layup with less than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Rice’s shot was blocked by the 6-foot-6 Jones, causing her to land awkwardly. She immediately fell to the floor in visible pain, grabbing her left ankle as teammates surrounded her to provide privacy.
May 27, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Toronto Tempo guard Kiki Rice (1) brings the ball up court against the Chicago Sky guard Sydney Taylor (12) during the second half at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Rice was helped off the court by a Tempo staff member and did not return to the bench. Following the game, WNBA analyst Terrika Foster-Brasby reported on X that she observed Rice using crutches.
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The Tempo fell 97-82 to the Liberty, with Jones leading New York with 22 points, 17 rebounds, two assists and two blocks. Before exiting, Rice notched nine points, five rebounds and two assists while committing three turnovers in 23 minutes of action.
How has Rice’s rookie season gone so far?
As Brondello noted in her postgame press conference, Rice has continued to prove herself at the professional level following her strong collegiate performances during UCLA’s postseason run, where she helped lead the Bruins to an NCAA championship.
Apr 5, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Kiki Rice (1) celebrates with the trophy after the National Championship game against the South Carolina Gamecocks of the women’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Although still in the early stages of her rookie year, Rice is averaging 12.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game, a strong start for the Tempo’s first ever draft pick.
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UCLA and Tempo fans alike are hoping for a quick recovery. Toronto returns to action Sunday, June 7, against the Chicago Sky.
The post Former UCLA Bruin Exits WNBA Matchup With Leg Injury appeared first on LA Sports Report.