Gabriela Jaquez and the UCLA Bruins defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks to win the 2026 NCAA title. The Bruins dominated the game from the beginning, taking a 36-23 lead going into halftime.
They came back with even more firepower in the second half to close the game 79-51, eliminating one of the strongest teams this season to become the champions. Gabriela played a huge role in securing this win.
She dropped a double-double, leading the team with 21 points, shooting 8 of 14 from the field, with 10 rebounds, five assists, and a steal. All the other starters scored in double digits, and Lauren Betts also had a 14-point double-double.
Gabriela’s brother, Jaime Jaquez Jr., was in attendance at the PHX Arena in Phoenix to witness his sister make history. Jaime is a former Bruin and currently plays in the NBA for the Miami Heat.
On Saturday, he dropped a career high 32 points against the Washington Wizards and then took a flight to Phoenix to support his sister. During the game, he joined the announcers’ table, where he was asked about Gabriela.
“I’m happy to be here. Happy to be out supporting the Bruins tonight,” he said. “It’s incredible. I can’t say how proud I am of her. This has been a dream of hers for so long, ever since the third grade.”
Jaime said that Gabriela wrote down back then that she would grow up to be a Bruin. The proud brother got to witness his sister living her dream.
This was the first NCAA title in the history of the UCLA Bruins program. Gabriela playing a huge role in bringing the first trophy to UCLA makes it even more special.
Gabriela Jaquez’s Brother Urged Fans to Rally Behind the Bruins
Before the game started, Jaime recorded a video for social media, asking fans to root for the UCLA Bruins. He did his part by bringing more fans to UCLA’s side when they were gearing up to go against one of the best teams in the country.
“We’re here in Phoenix, Arizona. Here to support for the National Championship,” he said. “I need to see you guys out there at the game. Everyone, support, Go Bruins, our girls need us.”
Before leaving for Phoenix, Jaime told the Heat broadcast that he was very excited for the final against South Carolina, and he was going there to support his sister and the program.
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