Miami Heat’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. Named to Rising Stars Team
Fresh off two consecutive Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month awards, Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. will get the chance to showcase his talent against the top young players in basketball.
The 2024 Panini Rising Stars competition is the opening event of All-Star Weekend at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers. Along with Jaquez Jr., names like Victor Wembanyama, Paolo Banchero and Chet Holmgren will suit up in this premier showcase for rookies, sophomores and G League talent. The event is broadcast on TNT on Feb. 16.
Jaquez Jr. is the 11th Heat player to take part in Rising Stars. The others are Tyler Herro (2020, 2021), Precious Achiuwa (2021), Kendrick Nunn (2020), Norris Cole (2012), Michael Beasley (2009, 2010), Dwyane Wade (2004, 2005), Udonis Haslem (2004, 2005), Caron Butler (2003), Kurt Thomas (1996) and Khalid Reeves (1995).
The 22-year-old rookie, who was the 18th pick in the NBA draft, has already exceeded expectations. Jaquez Jr. has appeared in 41 games (15 starts) and averaged 13.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting more than 50 percent from the field. Among rookies this season, Jaquez Jr. ranks first in steals per game, third in minutes per game, and fourth in scoring average and field goals made.
Also taking part is guard Alondes Williams of the Sioux Falls Skyforce, the Miami Heat’s G League affiliate. Williams broke the Skyforce franchise record by scoring 55 points against the Salt Lake City Stars Jan. 7.
Nick Crandell is a staff contributor at Inside the Heat.
He can be reached at nick.crandell33@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @nickcrandell
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