By: Yuelan Yuan
Senior and star basketball player Jaime Jaquez Jr. recently announced his decision to part with UCLA.
With his declaration for the June 22 NBA draft, Jaquez begins a new chapter in his basketball career. He posted a heartfelt message on social media, saying farewell and thanking his fans, teammates, coaches, and trainers.
Although some may find this next step daunting, Jaquez has no doubt that he will make it in the NBA. Given that he was this season’s Pac-12 player of the year, there is certainly a rationale behind his confidence. After taking UCLA to one Final Four and two more appearances in the Sweet 16, Jaquez finished his career with 1,802 points and in eighth place on the school’s all-time scoring list.
He has recently told the LA Times that nine teams have brought him in for workouts. Jaquez comments that “feedback has been very positive” and feels that he did his best to show off what he can do, leaving the GMs impressed.
Jaquez has a unique brand of grit and an expanding skill set, making him an impressive candidate for the draft. His ability to score from anywhere inside 25 feet is matched by relentless rebounding, formidable defense, and a willingness to pass. During his time with UCLA, Jaquez says he learned how to be more vocal on defense and make his presence known with his skill set.
“He played really hard, he competed his ass off, he made smart decisions with the ball,” said one NBA executive, who predicts that Jaquez will be selected between picks 17 and 25 in the first round. Jaquez would be the first Bruin to be drafted in the first round since Darren Collison in 2009.
During his workout with former Lakers forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, Jaquez was reminded of his aspiration to play in the NBA as a Mexican American. He hopes to make his extended family proud and “inspire a new generation” to give the sport a shot.
Although Jaquez has no regrets about his time in college, he is sad to leave his sister, Gabriela, after one remarkable year together on campus. Despite this, he feels ready to move on to the NBA and what it has to offer him.