UCLA Star Gabriela Jaquez Continues Family's Basketball Legacy

Gabriela's journey is a testament to the power of family and cultural heritage in sports.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game or match, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors, representing the Jaquez family's multi-generational involvement in the sport.The Jaquez family's basketball legacy is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, reflecting the dynamic interplay of their shared passion for the sport.Irvine Today

As the UCLA Bruins gear up for the NCAA women's basketball championship, the spotlight shines on senior guard Gabriela Jaquez and her remarkable basketball lineage. Gabriela's story is intertwined with her family's deep-rooted basketball legacy, with her older brother Jaime Jaquez Jr. playing in the NBA and her younger brother Marcos also sharing the same passion for the sport. The Jaquez family's story goes beyond the basketball court, showcasing the importance of cultural identity and the influence of parental support.

Why it matters

The Jaquez family's story is a powerful example of how sports can bring families together and create a lasting impact, transcending the court and shaping cultural pride and legacy. Gabriela's journey highlights the significance of family support and the role of heritage in shaping an athlete's identity and success.

The details

Gabriela Jaquez is the latest member of the Jaquez basketball dynasty, following in the footsteps of her older brother Jaime Jaquez Jr., who now plays in the NBA. The family's deep-rooted passion for the sport is evident, with Gabriela's younger brother Marcos also sharing the same love for basketball. The Jaquez family's cultural identity is a central part of their story, with their names reflecting their Mexican heritage. Gabriela's parents, Angela Sather and Jaime Jaquez Sr., met on the basketball courts of Concordia University in Irvine, California, and their love for the game and each other has led to a family united by basketball.

  • Gabriela Jaquez is a senior guard for the UCLA Bruins in the 2026 NCAA women's basketball season.
  • Jaime Jaquez Jr., Gabriela's older brother, currently plays in the NBA for the Miami Heat.

The players

Gabriela Jaquez

A senior guard for the UCLA Bruins women's basketball team, Gabriela is continuing her family's basketball legacy.

Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Gabriela's older brother, a former UCLA player who now plays in the NBA for the Miami Heat.

Marcos Jaquez

Gabriela's younger brother, who also shares the family's passion for basketball.

Jaime Jaquez Sr.

Gabriela's father, who emphasizes the importance of the family's Mexican heritage.

Angela Sather

Gabriela's mother, a former talented basketball player herself who now works as a realtor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I hope she really cements the Jaquez legacy here at UCLA.”

— Jaime Jaquez Jr., Gabriela's older brother

What’s next

As the UCLA Bruins compete in the NCAA women's basketball championship, all eyes will be on Gabriela Jaquez and her chance to further cement the Jaquez family's basketball legacy.

The takeaway

The Jaquez family's story is a powerful testament to the role of family, cultural heritage, and parental support in shaping the success of an athlete. Gabriela's journey showcases how sports can bring families together and create a lasting impact that transcends the court.