| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| WNBA Draft | The selection process where Women’s National Basketball Association teams choose new players from college or overseas. |
| Testament | Proof or strong evidence of something. |
| Contributed | Counted towards. |
Gabriela Jáquez, a Mexican-American basketball player, made history when she was selected in the WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. She is the fifth woman of Mexican descent to be chosen for the league. Gabriela, who is 22 years old and from Irvine, California, joins her brother Jaime Jáquez Jr. in breaking new ground as the first siblings of Mexican heritage to be drafted by the top U.S. basketball leagues.
Gabriela’s selection was a significant moment for her university as well. She was one of five players from UCLA chosen in the first round, setting a new WNBA draft record. A sixth player from UCLA was picked in the second round, marking another milestone for the school. Gabriela’s impressive performance during her college career, including an average of 13.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, contributed to her high draft position.
The Jáquez siblings are proud of their heritage and have both represented Mexico in international basketball competitions. Gabriela made her international debut for Mexico in 2024, while Jaime played in the 2019 Pan American Games. Gabriela expressed her excitement about playing for the Chicago Sky and her eagerness to embrace this new opportunity in her basketball career.
The family celebrated Gabriela’s achievement together, even using technology to include Jaime, who was in Miami preparing for an NBA playoff game. This moment highlighted the close bond between the siblings and their shared dedication to representing the Latino community in sports.
Gabriela’s journey to the WNBA is not only a personal victory but also a testament to her hard work and commitment to her cultural roots. Her story is an inspiration to many young athletes and a reminder of the importance of embracing one’s heritage while striving for excellence.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Community | Comunidad |
| Culture | Cultura |
| Opportunity | Oportunidad |
Time to discuss
- How does Gabriela Jáquez’s achievement influence young athletes of Mexican descent?
- What role does heritage play in sports, and how can athletes use it to inspire others?
- Why is it important for families to celebrate achievements together?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Describe how Gabriela’s college performance contributed to her selection in the WNBA Draft.
- Discuss the significance of representing one’s culture in international sports competitions.
