UCLA Women's Basketball: Kiki Rice Talks New Jordans

Eva Geitheim | Apr 8, 2024

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

UCLA women's basketball star Kiki Rice recently came out with her first Jordan player edition shoe, the Air Jordan 38 Low. The shoe, called the 'Cherry Blossom,' features a white base with light pink and light blue shoe laces. Light pink, blue and hot pink also adorn the sides of the shoe, with a small pink cherry blossom design.

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A post shared by Kiki Rice (@kiki.rice)

When revealing the inspiration behind producing the shoe, Rice could not help but gush about her teammates. Rice even revealed in a recent feature with Galore's Taylor Winter Wilson that she gifted all her teammates with the shoe.

"When I announced my partnership with Jordan, I wanted to show my appreciation for my teammates by gifting them exclusive footwear created by the brand," Rice said. "Their reactions were priceless, but more importantly, being able to give back to my teammates in this way was incredibly fulfilling."

"They’ve been there for me through thick and thin, pushing me to be the best player and person I can be," Rice added. "Their support and encouragement have played a significant role during my time at UCLA, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. So, sharing this moment with them and expressing my gratitude meant the world to me. It was a small token of appreciation for everything they’ve done for me, both on and off the court."

This team mentality helped Rice and UCLA succeed this season, reaching the Sweet Sixteen in this year's NCAA Tournament. The former Gatorade National Player of the Year has proven to be one of the better players in college basketball, earning her first All-Pac-12 honors in her sophomore season.

These shoes and this feature are just adding to the growth of Rice as one of the rising stars in women's college basketball. Along with these, she will also be featured in an upcoming four-part docuseries called "Full Court Press," alongside Caitlin Clark and Kamilla Cardoso.