UCLA Basketball: Jaime Jaquez Speaks Out Against League Looking Down On 4-Year College Players

He cherished his time at UCLA.

When the Miami Heat selected former UCLA Bruins forward Jamie Jaquez Jr. in the first round of the NBA Draft this past year, the pick was met with all sorts of positivity. It felt like Jaquez Jr. was going to the correct place, and so far, it was been a great pairing.

He opened up about his time in the league so far, and how staying with the Bruins for four years has helped him.

“Speaking for myself, I don’t think I’ve hit my maximum potential yet. People can think that. I’m just going to keep playing my game. Basketball is basketball. I think everyone can grow no matter how far they are. There’s always so much to learn. I think that’s very close-minded to think that. You can have your development in the pros or college. It’s just about timing. I learned a lot of things in college.”

Per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype

Jaquez Jr. is making the most of his chance with the Heat, averaging 11.3 points per game this season. He has become a big part of their rotation and has been able to hit the ground running.

His time with the Bruins really helped shape him into who he is today. He understands what it means to have to work toward a goal, and playing in all of the collegiate games gave him more experience.

“I feel like guys who went to the league very early didn’t have the chance to. Rookies get into the league early, and sometimes they don’t play right away. It’s the same in college as well, but it’s an opportunity to learn, develop, and really try to earn a spot. I think that’s really important and is something that gets overlooked. I went through a process and four years at a program of really learning and developing within that program. I think that can help a lot of guys, especially in their transition to the NBA.”

Per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype

Far too often, players get criticized for not leaving school early, but some want that extra time to grow their skills. It can be very helpful for young players, and then when they enter the league, they can just take over.

Jaquez Jr. is using that experience to push himself forward and is thankful for everything he learned while with UCLA. It’s been great to see Jaquez Jr. thrive so far this season, and we hope that he can continue to put up incredible numbers going forward.

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