'We got really lucky:' Toronto Tempo say UCLA star Kiki Rice has not disappointed
The Toronto Tempo selected UCLA standout Kiki Rice with their first-ever draft pick, and she has quickly proven her value in the early part of the WNBA season. Despite being a rookie, Rice has contributed off the bench with solid scoring and playmaking in her first games. Coach Sandy Brondello praised her confidence and adaptability, noting she has exceeded expectations.
- ▪Kiki Rice was the Toronto Tempo's first draft pick, selected sixth overall in the 2026 WNBA draft.
- ▪Rice averaged 7.7 points and 1.3 assists in her first two WNBA games, playing around 20 minutes per game.
- ▪She helped lead UCLA to its first NCAA championship before entering the draft and was named Big Ten tournament MVP.
- ▪Six UCLA players were drafted in 2026, and all secured spots on WNBA rosters.
- ▪Rice is backing up starting point guard Julie Allemand, who was acquired by Toronto in the expansion draft.
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