Toronto Tempo rookie guard Kiki Rice has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left ankle sprain following an injury suffered during the team’s 97-82 loss to the New York Liberty. The Tempo announced Thursday that Rice will be re-evaluated in the coming days, with no immediate timetable established for her return.

The injury occurred with 1:35 remaining in the fourth quarter when Rice drove toward the basket and attempted a layup. Her shot was blocked by Jonquel Jones, and she landed awkwardly on her left ankle. Rice immediately fell to the floor in visible pain, clutching her lower left leg and ankle. She remained down for several moments before being helped to her feet by teammates and staff members. The 22-year-old then limped off the court and headed to the locker room with assistance. Rice was reportedly using crutches after the game.

Before exiting, Rice recorded nine points, five rebounds and two assists in 23 minutes of action against New York. Subsequent imaging confirmed the Grade 2 ankle sprain.

The sixth overall selection in the 2026 WNBA Draft has been one of the standout rookies of the season. Rice has started seven of Toronto’s first 10 games and is averaging 12.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists and one steal per game while shooting 53.3 percent from the field.

Among first-year players, Rice ranks second in scoring behind Minnesota Lynx’s Olivia Miles, fifth in rebounding and third in average minutes played. Her strong start to her professional career follows a successful collegiate season at UCLA, where she helped lead the Bruins to the NCAA championship. Rice finished the title game with 10 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals in UCLA’s 79-51 win over South Carolina.

The Tempo’s next game is scheduled for Sunday against the Chicago Sky.

Toronto Tempo rookie guard Kiki Rice has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left ankle sprain following an injury suffered during the team’s 97-82 loss to the New York Liberty. The Tempo announced Thursday that Rice will be re-evaluated in the coming days, with no immediate timetable established for her return.