UPDATE: UCLA stars Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Gabriela Jaquez just concluded a transformative summer camp for 180 young athletes in Thousand Oaks, California. The siblings dedicated their time to empowering children aged 6 to 16 with essential basketball skills and valuable life lessons, making a significant impact in their community.
The camp, held at the Sports Academy facilities, lasted three hours and attracted participants even from out of state. Jaime, currently training for his third NBA season with the Miami Heat, and Gabriela, a rising star for the UCLA Bruins and the Mexican national team, emphasized the importance of discipline and passion for the game. “It’s good to come back and give something back to the community, especially in a place where we grew up,” Jaime stated, reflecting on his roots in Camarillo.
The Jaquez siblings’ return to their hometown not only showcased their commitment to youth development but also served as a source of inspiration for families. “It’s exciting to see Latino players succeed, one in the NBA and another possibly in the WNBA,” said Armando Castillas of Oxnard, who attended the camp with his children.
While leading drills and sharing personal stories, Jaime recalled his early days on local courts, playing basketball “from dawn to dusk.” He is gearing up for a crucial season after a challenging year with the Heat, where he was named to the all-rookie team for the 2023–24 season. “It has always been my goal to win championships,” Jaime said, focusing on his improvement before any commitments to the Mexican national team.
Gabriela, returning from the 2025 FIBA AmeriCup in Chile, averaged 12 points per game and was recognized as a Rising Star of the tournament. Competing against powerhouse teams such as the United States and Brazil, she demonstrated her growth as a player. “Playing at that level helped me a lot, especially physically,” the 6-foot guard remarked as she prepares for her third season with UCLA.
Jaime expressed immense pride for Gabriela’s achievements: “I hope she can continue on that path and keep growing.” Both siblings are now focused on their respective professional goals. Jaime aims to lead the Heat deeper into the playoffs, while Gabriela is determined to capture a national championship with UCLA, having already reached the Final Four last season. “The goal is to win championships with UCLA. We have the talent to go even further,” she asserted.
As the Jaquez siblings continue their journey in professional basketball, their commitment to uplifting the next generation remains unwavering. The energy and enthusiasm displayed at this camp serve as a reminder of the impact they are making, not just on the court, but in their community. Stay tuned for more updates on their progress as the basketball season approaches.