Miami Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. Speaks On Infrequent Route To NBA
Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. took what is considered an untraditional route to the NBA.
Jaquez spent four seasons with the UCLA Bruins before declaring for the 2023 draft, where he was selected with the No. 18 pick. In the modern era, players typically spend one year in college, overseas, or in the G League. He believes the uncommon decision has led to advantages in his short time in the league.
"Yeah, there are definitely some advantages of staying for four years. I mean, I know it's not for everybody. Everyone's got their own route. I wouldn't say it's necessarily better or worse. But I mean, there definitely are some advantages," Jaquez told Inside the Heat's Anthony Pasciolla. "Trying to gain experience, understanding different roles going from a freshman to a senior, letting your game evolve."
Jaquez's biggest positives entering the league were his veteran-like presence, patience on offense, and footwork in the post. He is showcasing these traits through 50 games, averaging 12.8 points and 3.9 rebounds on 48.8 percent shooting. The 23-year-old also consistently appears in clutch-time situations alongside the Heat's Big Three.
His experience at one of the highest levels in the world for a multitude of seasons will assist the Heat in their championship aspirations. They have reached the NBA Finals twice since 2020, as Jaquez aims to contribute to the group that gets over the hump.
His decision could lead to more collegiate basketball players choosing this route rather than a single year prior to declaring.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthony.pasciolla.
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