UCLA Basketball: Jaime Jaquez Reveals Biggest Lesson He Took From Coach Cronin and the Bruins

Four years in college paid off for the second-team All-American.

In the realm of college basketball, the prevailing trend in recent years has been the "one and done" model, with many top players opting for a single year of college before entering the NBA draft. 

These players, often 18-19 years old, are chosen by NBA teams for their potential, with the expectation that they will develop further at the professional level. However, this season has brought to light the benefits of a different path, one that involves staying in school for a more extended period.

Jaime Jaquez, a former standout forward for UCLA, is a prime example of this alternative route. Jaquez chose to spend all four years at UCLA, and this decision is proving to be a wise one. Contrary to the notion that staying longer in college may hinder development, Jaquez is emerging as one of the surprise rookies of the season in the NBA. His success is a testament to the advantages of a more prolonged collegiate experience.

In a recent interview with NBA Draft analyst Krysten Peek, Jaquez credited UCLA head coach Mick Cronin for playing a pivotal role in his preparation for the professional level.

“It helped [playing all four years] just learning how to win, learning to play the right way,” Jaquez told Yahoo Sports. “Something I learned under coach [Mick] Cronin is the little games within the game and what it takes to win and knowing when to make the right play and things like that. That stuff really translates when you’re coming into an organization that’s looking to win right away.”

(per Jaime Jaquez via Yahoo Sports)

The synergy between Jaquez and Cronin, who was hired by UCLA in 2019, spanned four years. Over this period, Jaquez exhibited consistent improvement, culminating in numerous accolades, including Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2023, two-time first-team All-Pac-12, second-team All-Pac-12, and two-time Pac-12 All-Defensive team.

While the one-and-done model remains popular, Jaquez's success challenges the notion that immediate entry into the NBA is the only path to excellence. Jaquez's unexpected impact as an NBA rookie comes as no surprise to loyal UCLA fans who witnessed his growth and contributions over his four years with the Bruins.