Kiki Rice Shines in Jordan Brand Campaign as UCLA Women's Basketball Surges to Historic Start

The UCLA women’s basketball team is off to an exceptional 16-0 start this season, with the No. 1-ranked Bruins showing no signs of slowing down. At the heart of their success is junior guard Kiki Rice, a player whose impact goes far beyond the basketball court. Rice, the reigning All-Pac-12 Player, has been a pivotal contributor to the team’s success with her all-around skill set, excelling in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Off the floor, Rice is making a name for herself as a trailblazer in sports marketing, and her partnership with Jordan Brand is taking her career to new heights.

A Rising Star in Women's Basketball

Kiki Rice’s journey to the top of women’s basketball has been one of hard work and determination. After dominating high school basketball, Rice transitioned seamlessly into college play at UCLA, becoming a standout in the Pac-12 and leading her team to a 16-0 record so far this season. The junior guard's diverse skill set has made her a key figure in the Bruins' loaded roster, and her leadership on the court is undeniable.

Rice’s influence extends well beyond her on-court performance. She has become one of the most recognized faces in women’s basketball, making history as the first NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) signee for Nike’s iconic Jordan Brand back in 2022. Rice shines with an impressive Out2Win Score of 88, fueled by her 90K+ Instagram followers and a standout 7% engagement rate—insights powered by Out2Win's platform. This achievement marked the beginning of Rice’s groundbreaking career in sports marketing and a new chapter for female athletes in the NIL space.

A Historical Partnership with Jordan Brand

Rice's partnership with Jordan Brand is more than just a sponsorship; it's a true collaboration. In 2022, she made waves when she debuted her own custom "Cherry Blossom" colorway of the Air Jordan 38. The design paid homage to her roots in Washington, D.C., reflecting her personal connection to her heritage while showcasing her unique style. The sneaker drop was a milestone for both Rice and the broader women’s sports world, further establishing her as a leading voice in the industry.

Today, Rice is a key member of Jordan Brand’s Generation Heir roster, a collection of elite female athletes who have contributed to the design and development of the first-ever women’s basketball shoe by the brand. Alongside stars like Rhyne Howard, Jordin Canada, and Kia Nurse, Rice is helping shape the future of women’s basketball footwear, ensuring that female 

Kiki Rice’s Impact on and Off the Court

Rice’s partnership with Jordan Brand goes hand-in-hand with her role as one of the most prolific NIL athletes today. Represented by Wasserman, Rice has secured partnerships with major brands such as Beats by Dre, Buick, Invisalign, StarKist, and Neutrogena, among others. Her ability to balance high-level athletic performance with strategic brand partnerships has positioned her as a role model for young athletes aspiring to make an impact both on and off the court.

Rice’s growing influence is a testament to her leadership in both the sports and marketing worlds. As part of the Generation Heir campaign, she continues to inspire the next generation of female athletes, pushing the boundaries of what women’s basketball and sports marketing can achieve.

The Future of Women's Sports and the Next Generation of Athletes

Kiki Rice’s collaboration with Jordan Brand is a game-changer, not only for her career but for the future of women’s sports. As female athletes continue to gain visibility and recognition, the creation of products like the Generation Heir basketball sneaker is helping to address the unique needs and experiences of women in sports. By actively participating in the design process, Rice and her fellow athletes are ensuring that the next generation of female athletes has access to performance-driven products that support their talents and aspirations.

Moreover, the visibility and impact of partnerships like Rice’s are vital in encouraging young girls to pursue sports and see themselves as future leaders in their chosen fields. As the sports world becomes more inclusive, role models like Rice serve as proof that women athletes can break barriers, set trends, and redefine what success looks like, both on the court and in the business world.

By advocating for change and embracing opportunities that empower women athletes, Rice is not only advancing women’s basketball but also inspiring young girls everywhere to chase their dreams. The future of women’s sports is brighter than ever, and with athletes like Kiki Rice leading the way, the next generation of athletes will have more opportunities and support than ever before.

A Force to Be Reckoned With

Kiki Rice’s inclusion in the Jordan Brand campaign is just the latest chapter in her incredible rise to stardom. As the UCLA women’s basketball team soars to new heights, Rice is proving that her influence extends far beyond the game itself. Her groundbreaking partnership with Jordan Brand, her contributions to the design of the Heir Series sneaker, and her impressive list of brand partnerships make her one of the most impactful athletes in the NIL era. With National Championship aspirations for the Bruins and a bright future ahead, Kiki Rice is a name that will continue to resonate in the worlds of both basketball and sports marketing.