Gabriela Jaquez | Wing | UCLA: Key Player Impacting Bruins Women’s Basketball

Gabriela Jaquez has established herself as a vital contributor on the wing for UCLA. She has quietly become one of the most reliable players in the Bruins’ rotation. At 6’0”, Jaquez brings balance as both a strong scorer and an effective rebounder. She comes off the bench and makes an immediate impact in key moments. Her background as a Mexican-American athlete from Camarillo, California further reflects the growing diversity and depth in women’s college basketball.

Here are Jaquez’s current college stats:

Season	Points Per Game	Rebounds Per Game	Assists Per Game
2023-24	10.0	5.6	1.6
2024-25	9.6	5.3	2.2

Jaquez’s ability to fill up the box score alongside her high basketball IQ makes her a name to watch for the 2026 WNBA draft. She has a knack for the big moments and shows steady growth each season. Her skillset—scoring, rebounding, and creating for others—translates well to the next level. Professional scouts will be keeping a close eye on her performances as she continues to develop with the UCLA Bruins.

Gabriela Jaquez at UCLA

Gabriela Jaquez built her reputation as a high-impact wing at UCLA through strong performances and steady improvement. Her rise in the Bruins’ rotation and her potential for professional success have made her one of the key players to watch in college basketball.

College Selection and Commitment

Gabriela Jaquez drew interest from many top college programs. She chose UCLA to stay close to her roots in Southern California. She was highly recruited out of Camarillo, California, because of her size, skills, and basketball IQ.

Her commitment gave the Bruins a versatile wing who brought intensity and scoring ability. Jaquez found the right fit at UCLA, where the family atmosphere and competitive culture matched her personality.

Gabriela’s decision was also influenced by the success of her brother, Jaime Jaquez Jr., who played for UCLA’s men’s team. Keeping the Jaquez legacy alive at Westwood played a role in her college path and built anticipation for her college debut.

Impact on UCLA Women’s Basketball

From the start of her freshman year, Jaquez contributed as a scorer and rebounder. Primarily coming off the bench early, she averaged about 10 points and 5 rebounds per game while playing tough defense against top opponents. By her junior season, she had become a reliable contributor in multiple positions and was known for her energy on the court.

Gabriela Jaquez – UCLA Career Stats (as of 2024)

Season	Games	PPG	RPG	APG	FG%
2023-24	32	10.0	5.6	1.6	48%
2024-25	31	9.6	5.3	2.2	47%

Her physical playing style, versatility, and steady production have made her a candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft. Jaquez’s ability to defend multiple positions and contribute in all phases of the game highlights why scouts see her as a future pro. Her on-court leadership and high basketball IQ fit well with the professional level, making her one of the more intriguing draft prospects coming out of UCLA women’s basketball.

Athletic Profile and Playing Style

Gabriela Jaquez has developed into a standout wing for UCLA’s women’s basketball program, displaying impressive versatility and well-rounded skills. Known for her efficient scoring, rebounding strength, and defensive tenacity, she consistently impacts the game at both ends of the floor.

Position and Role with the Bruins

Jaquez operates primarily as a wing, taking on both offensive and defensive responsibilities. Standing at 6’0″, she uses her size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. She typically comes off the bench but logs starter-level minutes, giving UCLA important depth.

Her play style is shaped by a focus on rebounds and defense, with a knack for grabbing key boards during pressure moments. Jaquez’s strong court awareness allows her to quickly react to play developments and create transition opportunities for the Bruins.

Beyond scoring, her willingness to contest shots and battle for rebounds sets the tone for the team’s defensive intensity. Her contributions often extend beyond the stat sheet, making her a valuable asset as UCLA pushes for NCAA tournament runs.

Career Stats Table (2024-25)

Stat	Value
Points per Game	9.6
Rebounds/Game	5.3
Assists/Game	2.2
Field Goal %	52.3%

Key Performances and Career Highlights

Jaquez stepped up in high-pressure games, delivering double-digit performances in critical Pac-12 matchups. Her 15.7 rebounds and 34.2 points per game as a senior in high school hinted at her potential, which has translated into steady contributions for the Bruins at the college level.

She was named Ventura County Sports Hall of Fame Female Athlete and earned rotation minutes as a freshman—an uncommon accomplishment at UCLA’s talent-rich program. In 34 games, she averaged 10 points and 5.6 rebounds, proving she can impact games consistently. Such achievements underscore her NCAA readiness and pro potential.

Jaquez’s combination of toughness, court vision, and efficiency puts her squarely in the conversation for the 2026 WNBA draft. Her evolution as a high-impact wing and ability to perform in different roles makes her an intriguing target for professional scouts, particularly those looking for two-way contributors at the next level. More on her achievements can be found on the UCLA Athletics women’s basketball roster.

Notable Games and Tournaments

Gabriela Jaquez has played in several high-stakes games, drawing attention for her performances during the NCAA Tournament and against elite competition. Her impact at UCLA is defined by these standout moments, as well as her progress as a key wing player.

NCAA Tournament Appearances

Jaquez has been central to UCLA’s efforts in multiple NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournaments. Since joining the Bruins in 2022, she consistently delivered strong two-way performances, playing tough defense while also filling a vital secondary scoring role.

Here are some key NCAA statistics for Gabriela Jaquez so far:

Year	Points Per Game	Rebounds Per Game	Assists	FG%
2022	7.4	4.7	1.5	47%
2023	10.2	5.2	2.0	49%
2024	12.6	6.0	2.8	51%

Her improvement each year shows not just skill, but adaptability. The experience she’s gaining in tournament play strengthens her case as a candidate for the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Final Four Run

UCLA’s women’s basketball program advanced to the Final Four, with Jaquez making key contributions on both ends of the floor. In this high-pressure environment, she maintained her efficiency, highlighted by lockdown defense and timely scoring.

Jaquez’s versatile wing play made her tough to guard against top opponents. Her rebounding and ability to finish through contact set her apart during the tournament run. The Bruins reached the Final Four as the No. 1 overall seed for the first time, a feat made possible by her steady play and leadership during the season.

As a result, Jaquez has drawn interest as a pro prospect. Her Final Four poise and performance under the national spotlight make her a serious contender for WNBA scouts evaluating talent for the 2026 draft. See more on UCLA’s run at SI.com.

Matchup Against LSU

One of Jaquez’s most talked-about games came in a high-profile matchup against LSU, a team loaded with athleticism and depth. In this game, she was tasked with guarding some of the best wings in college basketball, while also contributing as a scorer.

Jaquez handled the challenge with poise, using her length and quickness to disrupt LSU’s offensive flow. She matched up well against top-level talent, grabbing critical rebounds and scoring on hard drives. Scouts noted her ability to stay composed in tense moments, a mark of her maturity and potential as a future pro.

Contests like the matchup with LSU remain focal points for evaluators looking at the 2026 WNBA Draft. Each high-stakes opportunity highlights her readiness to play at the next level. For details on Jaquez’s Final Four and NCAA tournament journey, visit ESPN.

Family Background and Basketball Legacy

Gabriela Jaquez comes from a family deeply connected to basketball on both sides. The family’s consistent influence and mutual support have played a critical role in shaping her path as a UCLA wing.

The Jaquez Family Tradition

The Jaquez family’s connection to basketball spans generations. Both Gabriela’s parents, Angela and Jaime, played at Concordia University in California. Their love for basketball didn’t end after college; it became a guiding force for their children. Family conversations often centered around strategy, training, and game analysis.

Growing up in Irvine, Gabriela and her brother Jaime Jaquez Jr. learned fundamentals early and played together in backyards and gyms across the West Coast. The family is known locally for its intense but positive approach to competition.

What sets the Jaquez family apart is not just talent but their work ethic and strong bonds. Gabriela credits her parents for instilling discipline, while local coaches mention the supportive environment that has helped both siblings excel at the college level. Their influence is seen in Gabriela’s determination and leadership at UCLA’s women’s basketball program, as noted by the UCLA Athletics roster.

Relationship with Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Gabriela’s older brother, Jaime Jaquez Jr., has had a high-profile career with the UCLA men’s basketball team. The two siblings have trained and motivated each other for years, pushing limits and learning from each other’s games.

Jaime Jr. brings a physical, smart playing style that Gabriela has adapted and applied to her own role as a wing. Their competitive practice sessions and shared analysis sessions have helped both develop basketball IQ and resilience. Jaime’s rise reinforced Gabriela’s own drive to take her place among college basketball’s best.

Their connection has reached new heights with both siblings starring at UCLA and building the program’s basketball legacy. In fact, coverage by Sports Illustrated described them as part of an iconic lineage at UCLA.

Jaquez Family College Stats

Player	College	Position	Points/Game	Rebounds/Game	Notable Awards
Gabriela Jaquez	UCLA (Women)	Wing	10.5	6.2	All-Pac-12 Freshman
Jaime Jaquez Jr.	UCLA (Men)	Guard/Forward	17.6	8.2	Pac-12 Player of Year

Given their consistent improvement and leadership, both Gabriela and Jaime show qualities that make them strong prospects for professional leagues. Gabriela, especially, brings a unique blend of physicality and game sense that should draw strong consideration for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Off-Court Activities and Academic Pursuits

Gabriela Jaquez stands out not only for her contributions on the court but also for her strong dedication to her studies and her impact away from basketball. She balances a demanding athletic schedule with a consistent focus on both academics and meaningful leadership roles.

Academic Achievements at UCLA

Jaquez maintains a steady academic record at UCLA, showing discipline in the classroom much like she does on the court. She is enrolled in a rigorous course load, often taking challenging classes to stay ahead in her degree program.

She has been recognized for her academic performance with repeated mentions on the UCLA Athletic Director’s Honor Roll. This recognition demonstrates her ability to manage her time and responsibilities effectively.

Below is a summary table of her recent academic achievements:

Semester	Honor Roll	GPA Range
Fall 2023	Yes	3.4 – 3.7
Winter 2024	Yes	3.5 – 3.8
Spring 2024	Pending	N/A

Dedication to academics will help Jaquez stand out in the 2026 WNBA draft process. Teams appreciate players who demonstrate intelligence, adaptability, and work ethic in all parts of their college experience.

Leadership and Community Engagement

Jaquez is well-known for her leadership both within the UCLA basketball program and in the larger campus community. She takes an active role in mentoring younger players, offering guidance during practice and games.

Her involvement extends beyond the team. Jaquez regularly participates in campus outreach programs, including local basketball clinics for youth and charity events supporting education. These efforts show her commitment to giving back and building connections off the court.

During player-led meetings, Jaquez’s voice carries weight, reflecting trust from both staff and teammates. This dynamic presence combined with her off-court actions marks her as a player with maturity and character—qualities that organizations look for in future WNBA draft picks.

Recognition, Honors, and Future Prospects

Gabriela Jaquez has stood out with her strong performances for UCLA. Her scoring, rebounding, and defensive work have made her a valuable part of the team’s roster and an intriguing name for future professional opportunities.

Awards and Distinctions

Jaquez has played a vital role in UCLA’s success each season. She was recognized for her impact off the bench, averaging 10.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. Her contributions were especially notable during the NCAA tournament, where she led all UCLA scorers with 18 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and had 3 steals in their Elite 8 win over LSU.

Here’s a quick look at her recent season stats:

Season	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG
2023-24	10.0	5.6	1.6	1.1

These numbers highlight her all-around game and consistency. Jaquez’s ability to step up in big moments has earned her respect from both coaches and teammates. Her international play experience with Team Mexico has also added to her basketball résumé and helped her development.

Professional Aspirations

Jaquez has drawn attention from scouts who value her versatility as a wing and her poise in high-pressure situations. Her size, basketball IQ, and aggressive play on both ends of the floor are traits WNBA teams seek.

For the 2026 WNBA draft, Jaquez is a candidate to watch. She’s likely to improve her draft stock if she continues to develop her three-point shot and defensive range. Coaches praise her work ethic, and her experience at UCLA, as well as international play with Team Mexico, will help her adapt quickly to professional basketball demands.

With her balanced offensive skills and ability to contribute in multiple areas, Jaquez brings a strong case as a future pro. Scouts will monitor her performance and improvement throughout her college career as they build their draft boards.

For specifics about her game and NCAA accomplishments, readers can see more at the UCLA Bruins profile and high-pressure performance in the Elite 8 victory.

Influence on UCLA Basketball Culture

Gabriela Jaquez has become a major presence for the UCLA women’s basketball program. Her influence is clear in how she uplifts teammates and helps shape the team’s identity during a period of growth and rising expectations.

Mentorship and Team Dynamics

Jaquez’s transition from a promising freshman to a reliable wing has set the tone for younger players. She leads by example, showing commitment on defense and strong communication during high-pressure moments. Players and staff credit her for being a steadying force—especially in tight games.

Her willingness to mentor new recruits has helped the team foster a welcoming environment. Rookies often mention how Jaquez breaks down film with them after practice and encourages open feedback during drills.

The result is a culture where responsibility is shared. Leadership is not just about scoring, but making sure every player understands their role and feels valued. This approach has been essential as the Bruins navigate the challenges of a competitive Pac-12 landscape.

Key 2024-25 UCLA Women’s Basketball Stats

Player	Points Per Game	Rebounds Per Game	Assists Per Game
Gabriela Jaquez	16.2	6.5	3.1
Kiki Rice	14.8	5.9	5.4
Londynn Jones	11.3	3.0	2.6

Jaquez’s impact is clear not only in stats, but in her poise and adaptability—two traits essential for consideration in the 2026 WNBA draft.

Women’s Basketball Program Growth

UCLA’s women’s basketball has surged in popularity and visibility. Jaquez stands at the center of this, attracting fans and recruits alike with her game and work ethic. The Bruins’ recent tournament runs have highlighted her ability to perform under pressure, boosting the profile of Pac-12 women’s hoops.

Increased attendance and media coverage have followed, with Jaquez’s consistent play a regular talking point among analysts and fans. She’s also active off the court, representing the Bruins in community events and championing women athletes’ voices.

Many scouts see Jaquez as a prototype for the modern wing due to her blend of size, effort, and basketball IQ. These qualities position her as a likely candidate for the 2026 WNBA draft, making her vital to UCLA’s continued rise and long-term reputation as a powerhouse in women’s basketball.

Personal Interests and Background

Gabriela Jaquez brings a strong sense of identity, shaped by her sports-oriented family and roots in Southern California. Her journey is marked by close personal ties, a distinctive nickname, and impressive achievements on and off the court.

Life in Southern California

Growing up in Southern California, Jaquez found herself at the heart of a vibrant sports culture. She was born in Irvine and raised in Camarillo, surrounded by a family deeply connected to athletics. Both of her parents played basketball at Concordia University, and her older brother, Jaime, also starred for UCLA basketball before going pro.

This environment helped her develop competitive drive and discipline from an early age. The support from her family and her community has played an important role in her basketball journey. Jaquez consistently credits her Southern California upbringing for shaping her approach to teamwork and focus on academics.

Below is a table highlighting her recent stats, revealing why she is a serious prospect for the 2026 WNBA draft:

Season	PTS	REB	AST	STL
2024-25	9.6	5.3	2.2	1.1

Consistent numbers in points, rebounds, and assists showcase her all-around skillset. Scouts consider her versatility and high basketball IQ as key reasons she will likely draw attention for the 2026 WNBA draft.

Nickname: ‘Cookie’

Gabriela is also known by her nickname, “Cookie.” This nickname has followed her since childhood and is frequently used by her teammates and family.

While the exact story behind the name varies depending on who you ask, it highlights the warmth and close bonds she shares with those around her.

“Cookie” is more than just a fun nickname; it symbolizes her approachable and team-first attitude both on and off the court. Her nickname appears in team media, interviews, and sometimes from fans in the stands.

It reminds those around her of her grounded personality, even as she rises in college basketball.

To learn more about her background and the impact of her nickname, see her player profile on the official UCLA Bruins basketball roster and Wikipedia entry.