2023 NBA Draft Prospect Highlights: Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Overview
Jaime Jaquez Jr. spent the last four seasons playing the UCLA Bruins, ranking eighth all-time in points (1,802), eighth in steals (178) and 11th in rebounds (842) in school history. He averaged 17.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.5 steals across 37 games in 2022-23. For his efforts, the senior forward was named a consensus second-team All-American and 2023 Pac-12 Player of the Year. Throughout his collegiate career, he also earned Pac-12 All-Freshman Team honors and made the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team twice. Before UCLA, Jaquez played at Camarillo High School in Camarillo, California. Not only was he named to the first-team All-CIF Southern Section all four years, but he also played two seasons of varsity baseball as a pitcher and first baseman. Jaquez competed for the Mexican National Team in 2019 at the Pan American Games.
Analysis
Jaquez has good size and strength for a forward. He has good footwork in the post and can create his own shot or generate looks for his teammates. Jaquez is a crafty finisher but has also shown the ability to step outside for jump shots from the midrange and three. He is a smart defender who is adept at reading passing lanes.
Projection
Jaquez will likely begin his career competing for playing time but has the potential to develop into a quality bench player. His game has shades of Rui Hachimura and Anthony Lamb due to his strong rebounding profile and ability to finish around the rim.
— Profile by RotoWire