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The atmosphere at UCLA was electric as NBA commissioner Adam Silver approached the podium on draft night. The anticipation grew as the Miami Heat's turn to pick at number 18 approached. And then, in a moment that will forever be etched in the memories of the UCLA community, Silver announced Jaime Jaquez Jr.'
s name. It was a testament to Jaquez's unwavering dedication and perseverance during his four seasons with the Bruins, and witnessing him achieve his ultimate goal was truly extraordinary. It's rare to see a player stay with their university for the entirety of their college career and still be selected in the first round of the NBA draft.
However, Jaquez's exceptional talents have long been recognized, and his standout performance last season, averaging 17 points and eight rebounds, further cemented his status. Yet, Jaquez's impact extends beyond the basketball court.
He embodies the qualities of a true leader, demonstrating character and commitment that are exemplary.
UCLA Honors Jaquez and Faraimo
In a twist of fate, just days after Jaquez received the life-changing news of his selection by the Miami Heat, UCLA honored him with the prestigious Tom Hansen Medal.
This distinguished award celebrates consistent excellence and leadership, both academically and athletically. Alongside Jaquez, Megan Faraimo of UCLA's softball team was also recognized as a recipient of this esteemed accolade.
"UCLA student-athletes (softball) and (men's basketball) have been named as 2022-23 Pac-12 Tom Hansen Medal recipients, as announced Thursday by the Pac-12 Conference office. The Pac-12 annually awards conference medals to each of its member institution's outstanding male and female student-athletes based on a combination of performance and achievement in scholarship, athletics, and leadership." Jaquez's decision to enter the NBA at the age of 22 speaks volumes about the trust he placed in UCLA's organization to foster his growth as both a player and an individual.
He developed a profound love for learning from his upperclass teammates, eventually assuming a leadership role himself. His legacy at UCLA will endure as one of the greatest players to have ever worn the Bruins' jersey, having seamlessly balanced remarkable performances on the court with academic excellence year after year.
Jaime Jaquez Jr.' s remarkable journey from UCLA to the NBA, culminating in the honor of receiving the 2023 Student-Athlete Award, serves as an inspiration to all aspiring athletes. His achievements are a testament to the rewards that come with unwavering dedication, resilience, and a commitment to both athletic and academic excellence.