President Joe Biden invites Miami Heat star Jaime Jaquez Jr. to Cinco De Mayo celebrations

Jaime Jaquez Jr. is one of the very few players in the NBA of Latin-American heritage.

President Joe Biden invites Miami Heat star Jaime Jaquez Jr. to Cinco De Mayo celebrations

Miami Heat star Jaime Jaquez Jr. joins President Joe Biden at the White House during the Cinco De Mayo celebrations

When Jaime Jaquez Jr. was drafted by the Miami Heat this year, he knew he was going to have his work cut out amidst his playoff-contending teammates. But he took the task to hand and got himself to start a few games and be one of the most used options off the bench. Naturally, that translates to fame off the court. That fame has now caught the attention of the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden.

Jaquez Jr. is one of the few players in the NBA having a Latin American heritage. Adding to his growth as a star on his team, President Joe Biden decided to invite him to the Cinco De Mayo celebrations held at the White House. President Biden even invited him to address those who had gathered for the celebrations. The Cinco De Mayo is a yearly celebration that is held on the 5th of May. Considering that Jaquez Jr.’s season was over by then, it opened the door for him to represent his community at the White House.

For Jaime Jaquez Jr. this could be one of the stories of his life. Even if he wins an NBA title, generally the superstars of the team can stand alongside the President. Therefore, his standing tall next to the President was a surreal experience for the rookie guard.

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The former UCLA standout is a third-generation basketball player in his family. His sister Gabriela is a former McDonald’s All-American game co-MVP and currently plays for the UCLA Bruins. The Miami Heat guard will now look forward to next season when hopefully the Miami Heat will have a longer postseason run.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. part in Miami Heat in light of incoming changes

In Miami Heat President Pat Riley’s press conference, the common theme of the entire interview was about change. It did not mean that he was planning to do a complete rebuild. Instead, conversations centered around making necessary changes so that they can compete next season. But for changes to affect the team’s play the core has to be kept intact.

That includes the rookie 6′ 6″ guard. Standout play and hustle from Jaime Jaquez Jr. essentially made him a core player. One whose name was called upon every game even if it was from the bench. For a rookie, that is a feat as he has to compete against far more established veterans. His rookie contract is his biggest advantage. If he continues to play the way he did this season, especially in game 2 of the playoffs, he could stay on the team long-term.

Riley’s changes could focus on other players. With the Miami Heat not happy with the way their season ended, they may be aggressive this coming off-season.

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