The NBA returns to Aztec lands on November 2, and it will not be just any visit. On this occasion, the Miami Heat will have the presence of Jaime Jáquez Jr., the young Mexican promise who will seek to shine against the Washington Wizards and delight his compatriots at the CDMX Arena.
“I am very excited to travel and play in Mexico City. I don’t think I have done it since the last time I played [with the national team], and especially not in front of a big crowd,” said the first tricolor player to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft, since the duel will take place at the CDMX Arena, a venue that can hold more than 22 thousand souls.
“So I am very excited to do it. I know that a lot of my family will come to see the game. Many friends too. So I am excited, excited to play in front of the beautiful country of Mexico,” he added.
Jaime was born in California, United States, but has Mexican roots on his father’s side. Since he was a child, he frequently traveled to Mexico to visit his family, which allowed him to maintain a strong connection with Mexican culture.
“Day of the Dead. Yes, I definitely celebrate it with my family. It’s a special time. And yes, it’s always exciting, it’s always fun and, you know, I’m excited to have that game in Mexico,” Jaquez said.
In his rookie year, the Mexican forward played 75 games, 20 of them as a starter, averaging 12.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. In addition, he qualified with the Heat for his first postseason, participated in the 2024 NBA Dunk Contest, was selected to the 2024 NBA All-Rookie Team and set the record for points for a Mexican player in a league game, with 31 points. With these achievements, Jaquez is aware that that night at the CDMX Arena all the spotlights will be on him.
“I’m excited, it’s going to be a lot of fun. I know all eyes will be on me, that’s why we’re having this press conference right now. So I’m excited about it. I’m going out there giving it my all to put on a great show for all the fans, and I’m looking forward to it,” he concluded.
Source: record
