Kayla Rice has been named the Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month for December 2025 after a standout six-game stretch that showcased her ability to score efficiently while creating havoc on the defensive end.

Rice averaged 19.2 points per game, scoring in double figures in all six December contests. She added 2.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and an impressive 3.5 steals per game, consistently impacting both ends of the floor.

Her month was highlighted by a career-high 29 points against Wisconsin–Parkside (Dec. 16), along with 22-point performances vs. William Jewell and Roosevelt. Against William Jewell on Dec. 1, Rice made history by recording 10 steals, setting a new UIS single-game record—breaking her own previous mark. She also delivered a perfect night at the free throw line, going 10-for-10 vs. Wisconsin–Parkside.

Rice's production places her among the conference and national leaders. She ranks second in the GLVC in three-point percentage, third in scoring and steals, and sixth in threes per game, while also sitting eighth nationally in NCAA Division II in three-point percentage and 43rd in steals.

Kayla follows November's winner, her brother Jordan Rice, making them the first sibling duo in UIS history to earn the award and the first to claim back-to-back monthly selections.

Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month
Athlete of the Month honorees will be recognized at the end-of-year UIS Athletics banquet and will also be considered for UIS Male, Female, or Rookie of the Year, based on their respective categories.

The Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month award is presented in partnership with Jimmy John's in Springfield, reflecting a shared commitment between Jimmy John's and UIS Athletics to celebrate excellence, teamwork, and achievement across all Prairie Star programs.

December 2025 Nominees
Kayla Rice, Women's Basketball
Kennedy Osterman, Women's Basketball
Jordan Rice, Men's Basketball
Isaiah Davis, Men's Basketball
Alex Stell, Men's Basketball
Madelyn Miller-Ross, Women's Indoor Track & Field