Sisters Jáquez Make History as WNBA's Fifth Overall Pick
Gabriela Jáquez just became the fifth pick in the WNBA draft, making history alongside her NBA brother as the first Mexican-American siblings in both leagues. The UCLA champion also helped set two draft records in one incredible night.
When Gabriela Jáquez heard her name called fifth overall in Monday's WNBA draft, her family erupted in cheers while her brother Jaime watched via FaceTime from Miami, preparing for an NBA playoff game. The 22-year-old from Irvine, California just made history in ways she never imagined.
Gabriela and her brother became the first siblings of Mexican descent ever selected by the NBA and WNBA. They join just four other sibling duos across both leagues, a testament to their family's incredible athletic talent and dedication.
The Chicago Sky's newest player came into the draft with serious momentum. She averaged 13.5 points and 5.5 rebounds this past season at UCLA, shooting an impressive 54% from the field. Her breakout performance in the national championship game sealed the deal: 21 points and 10 rebounds to help bring home the title.
Gabriela's selection also rewrote the record books for UCLA. Five Bruins went in the first round alone, breaking the previous WNBA draft record. A sixth teammate was picked in round two, setting another mark for most players from one school in a single draft.
The Ripple Effect
For the Latino community, this moment carries special weight. Gabriela is only the third player of Mexican descent ever drafted by a WNBA team, following Evina Westbrook in 2022 and Lou López Sénéchal in 2023.
"I'm really thankful that me and my brother can represent the whole Latino community," Gabriela told Our Esquina. "Obviously being of Mexican descent, it's just really important for us to share our culture."
The siblings don't just talk about their heritage. They live it. Gabriela made her Mexico national team debut in August 2024, while Jaime played for Mexico at the 2019 Pan Am Games.
Their father held up his phone so Jaime could witness his sister's dream come true from 1,200 miles away. "I can't say how proud I am of her," Jaime Jr. said. "This has been a dream of hers for so long, ever since the third grade."
Now Gabriela is focused on what comes next in Chicago, ready to prove she belongs among the best players in the world.
Based on reporting by Mexico News Daily
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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