Kiki Rice Leads Montgomery County to Verge of National Championship Win
Filmogaz.com in Bethesda reports April 4, 2026 at 12:14 a.m. that UCLA defeated Texas 51-44 in the women’s Final Four. Montgomery County native Kiki Rice scored 11 points and grabbed five rebounds. The victory sends UCLA to the NCAA title game.
Final Four performance
Rice delivered a steady two-way effort in the win over Texas. Her contributions helped UCLA control the game down the stretch.
The Bruins advance to face South Carolina on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Early lines listed South Carolina as a 1.5-point favorite on Friday night.
Season and accolades
Rice rose to new levels during the 2025-26 season. She averaged a career-high 15.2 points per game.
She also earned Third Team AP All-American recognition. Rice has consistently led UCLA in assists while maintaining double-digit scoring.
College journey
Rice joined UCLA in 2022 and quickly became the team’s primary point guard. She has started nearly every game of her collegiate career.
Her floor leadership and playmaking established her among college basketball’s top guards.
Montgomery County roots and high school career
Rice moved to Bethesda in 2007 and developed at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C. She helped Sidwell reach a No. 1 national ranking.
Her senior season concluded undefeated. Rice collected numerous honors during high school.
- Eight varsity letters in basketball and soccer.
- Gatorade Female Athlete of the Year and Gatorade National Girls Basketball Player of the Year, 2021-22.
- Naismith High School Player of the Year.
- McDonald’s All-American and co-MVP of the All-American game.
- Ranked No. 2 nationally by espnW HoopGurlz.
- Multiple Gatorade District of Columbia Soccer Player of the Year awards.
- Led Sidwell Friends to two state soccer titles.
Championship outlook
With Rice leading the way, UCLA arrives at the brink of a national championship. The team’s balance and experience will be tested against South Carolina.
Filmogaz.com will continue coverage as the title game approaches. Courtesy UCLA Bruins.
