Gabriela Jaquez entered history books after playing a crucial role in the UCLA Bruins’ 79-51 win over Dawn Staley’s South Carolina Gamecocks in the national championship final on Sunday.
UCLA senior had been second fiddle to Lauren Betts and Kiki Rice all season. She is one of the most underrated players in the country. According to coach Cori Close, many WNBA coaches and teams are excited about the prospect of drafting her.
The type of determination, relentlessness, and willingness Jaquez brings is not something you can teach. That prospect, like some others, makes her a special player. And if somebody had any doubts about that, she made sure to prove that on the biggest stage. Not only was she the top scorer in the final, but she also entered the NCAA history books.
Gabriela Jaquez has become the fifth player all-time to have 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in a national championship game. Only four players in history have achieved this: Sarah Strong, Breanna Stewart, Dawn Staley, and Chamique Holdsclaw.
Cori Close’s UCLA dismantled Dawn Staley’s South Carolina in the NCAA final. They won with a huge margin of 28 points. The score line, which South Carolina fans would like to look away from, was 79-51. Lauren Betts and Gabriela Jaquez were at the heart of all things good for the Bruins.
Gabriela Jaquez had a mic drop moment in the NCAA final as well as in the post-game interview
Jaquez scored 21 points with 10 rebounds and 5 assists. It was a performance for the ages, as everything she did was exactly what UCLA needed. She hit 8-14 from the field, 2-4 three pointers, and 3-3 free throws. With only one turnover, she completely dominated South Carolina.
After the game, just after Lauren Betts was crowned Most Outstanding Player and before the trophy lifting moment, journalist Holly Rowe called upon Jaquez to have a few words on the victory. She asked the UCLA star about the journey and how they prepared and decided to achieve this dream. Jaquez, nonchalantly, answered:
“We decided to be national champions.”
Read more:
Who Are Gabriela Jaquez’s Parents? Know More About UCLA Star’s Brother Jaime Jaquez Jr. And Family
Caitlin Clark Drops 3-Word Reaction for Gabriela Jaquez’s Insane NCAA Final Performance
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