Heat Star Jaime Jaquez Supports Sister Gabriela in UCLA National Title Game

Jaime Jaquez Jr. flew to Phoenix the day after a standout performance in Miami. He left following a 32-point outing for the Heat and arrived to watch his sister play for a national championship.

Fast turnaround from NBA to NCAA

Jaquez scored 32 points against the Washington Wizards. He shot 12-of-18, added four assists and grabbed three rebounds in the Heat’s 152-136 win.

With a break in the schedule, he packed before the game and boarded a nonstop flight to Phoenix Sky Harbor. The Miami Heat and coach Erik Spoelstra allowed him to attend the college final.

At the Mortgage Matchup Center

He entered the Mortgage Matchup Center wearing sunglasses and a UCLA letterman sweater. He arrived in time to support Gabriela Jaquez as UCLA faced South Carolina for the title.

The Final Four action included a game on April 3, 2026, when Gabriela took the court against Texas. That appearance was part of UCLA’s run to the championship game.

Family legacy and college careers

The Jaquez family has enjoyed seven years connected to Bruins basketball. Jaime spent four seasons at UCLA and helped the program reach the 2021 Final Four.

He was named Pac-12 Player of the Year as a senior and became a first-round pick of the Heat. Gabriela progressed from a bench role as a freshman to a projected first-round WNBA draft pick.

Support and perspective

Jaquez described the trip as a can’t-miss family moment. He said the Heat organization supported his decision to fly home for the game.

His presence underscored the sibling bond and the family’s multi-year connection to UCLA basketball. Filmogaz.com covered his arrival and the build-up to the national title game.