Pat Riley’s Glowing Review of Jaime Jaquez’s Rookie Season

Miami Heat team president Pat Riley has high praise for former UCLA Bruin Jaime Jaquez Jr. following his impressive rookie season in the NBA.

“They’re two great pieces for us,” Riley said of Jaquez and second-year power forward Nikola Jovic.

Riley’s comments come after Jaquez’s impressive debut season, where he averaged 11.6 points on .489/.322/.811 shooting splits, 3.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and one steal per game in his 75 healthy contests (20 starts).

Jaime Jaquez Jr. takes it to the rim

Riley was particularly impressed with Jaquez’s work ethic, saying, “He’s a proud young warrior that will play every night for you.” He also acknowledged the challenges Jaquez faced during his rookie season, including a groin injury that sidelined him for several games.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. drives to the basket

Despite the setbacks, Jaquez finished in the top 10 vote-getters for Sixth Man of the Year honors and within the top five of vote recipients for Rookie of the Year.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. celebrates a Heat win

Riley’s glowing review of Jaquez’s rookie season is a testament to the young player’s hard work and dedication. As the Heat look to build on their success, Jaquez is sure to be a key piece of their puzzle moving forward.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. takes it to the rim