Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Miami Heat n/a
Position: Guard
2022-2023 Season Stats
Salary: N/A
PTS
N/A
REB
N/A
AST
N/A
FG%
N/A

Jaime Jaquez Jr. has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball through his remarkable journey. Throughout his four-season college career and subsequent NBA selection, Jaquez showcased his exceptional skills, earning accolades and etching his name in the annals of basketball history.

Table of Contents

A career in College

Jaquez’s college career was a testament to his dedication and prowess on the court. Playing for the UCLA Bruins, he participated in 134 games, securing 126 starts. Averaging 13.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in approximately 31.5 minutes per game, Jaquez’s impact was undeniable. His scoring prowess earned him a place at No. 8 on UCLA’s career scoring list, amassing an impressive 1,802 points. In terms of rebounding, he secured the 11th spot on the Bruins’ career rebounding list, gathering 842 rebounds.

Notably, Jaquez achieved a rare feat by ranking among the top 15 all-time leaders in scoring and rebounding in the UCLA men’s basketball program. His defensive skills were equally laudable, landing him at the No. 8 position on UCLA’s career steals list with 178 steals. His consistency was evident, with double-figure scoring in 94 games, at least ten rebounds in 25 games, and 20 or more points in 23 games. He displayed his versatility by recording 19 double-doubles during his college career.

Jaquez’s impact extended beyond individual statistics. He became the first UCLA player since Ed O’Bannon to lead the team in total rebounds for three consecutive seasons (2021, 2022, and 2023). Additionally, he ranked No. 9 in minutes played and games played for the Bruins, showcasing his dedication and commitment to the team.

2022-23 Season

During his senior season, Jaquez elevated his game to new heights. Starting all 37 games, he led the team with an average of 17.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. His versatility was on full display, contributing 2.4 assists and 1.5 steals per contest. His exceptional performance earned him numerous accolades, including being named the Lute Olson National Player of the Year by CollegeInsider.com and securing a spot as a consensus second-team All-American.

Jaquez’s impact extended to conference recognition, as he was honored as the 2023 Pac-12 Player of the Year, marking UCLA’s first such selection since Kevin Love in 2008. His remarkable season was further acknowledged with first-team All-Pac-12 honors and recognition as a first-team NABC All-District selection. He was also a semifinalist for the prestigious Naismith Trophy and a finalist for the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award.

In the NCAA Tournament, Jaquez continued to shine, averaging 23.3 points and 9.0 rebounds in three games. He showcased his efficiency, shooting 53.4 percent from the field in the tournament. Notably, he secured a place on the NCAA Tournament All-West Region Team and the All-Pac-12 Tournament Team.

2021-22 Season

Jaquez’s junior season has further solidified his reputation as a top-tier player. Starting all 34 games, he averaged 13.9 points and led the team with 5.7 rebounds per game. His all-around contributions were evident, with 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game. Recognized as a first-team All-Pac-12 Conference honoree, he also earned a place on the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team for the second consecutive year.

Jaquez’s impact extended beyond statistics, as he was crucial in leading UCLA to success. His presence on the court was instrumental in securing victories and earning him recognition as a finalist for the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award. His contributions to offense and defense were pivotal as he consistently scored in double figures and recorded double-doubles.

2020-21 Season

Jaquez’s sophomore season showcased his continued growth and impact on the court. Starting all 32 games, he averaged 12.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. His defensive prowess was evident through his contributions of 1.2 steals per game, and he showcased his versatility with 1.3 assists per game. Jaquez’s performance earned him second-team All-Pac-12 Conference honors, a testament to his consistent excellence.

His leadership on the court was further exemplified by leading the team in rebounds, steals, and minutes played per game. Jaquez’s contributions were invaluable, propelling UCLA to success and showcasing his ability to excel in high-pressure situations.

2019-20 Season

Jaquez burst onto the scene during his first year, significantly impacting the UCLA Bruins. Playing in all 31 games and starting 23, he averaged 8.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. His versatility and tenacity were evident, leading to his recognition as an honorable mention Pac-12 All-Freshman Team selection.

Notably, Jaquez’s contributions extended beyond statistics, showcasing his defensive skills through steals and his ability to make clutch plays. His performance as a freshman foreshadowed his future success and set the stage for his remarkable college career.

International and Personal Achievements

Beyond his college career, Jaquez’s commitment to basketball extended to the international stage. He proudly represented the Mexican National Team at the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, 2019. This experience allowed him to showcase his skills and contribute to the global basketball community.

Off the court, Jaquez’s dedication to education is evident through his pursuit of a history major. He comes from a family with a strong basketball background, as both parents played basketball at Concordia University (Irvine). His commitment to academic and athletic pursuits exemplifies his well-rounded approach to life.

Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s basketball journey has been one of consistent excellence, marked by his outstanding contributions to the UCLA Bruins and his recognition as a rising star in basketball. His impact, both on and off the court, inspires aspiring athletes and showcases the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and passion for the game.