Heat Star Jaime Jaquez Jr. 
After an impressive rookie campaign, Miami Heat forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. is poised for a significant leap in the 2025 NBA season. Team officials and head coach Erik Spoelstra have confirmed that Jaquez will see an expanded role next year, building on the versatility, poise, and two-way impact that made him one of Miami’s most reliable young contributors.
Jaquez, the 18th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, quickly won over Heat fans with his mature game, relentless hustle, and ability to contribute in a variety of roles. He averaged 11.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game in his rookie year, while shooting over 49% from the field and playing solid perimeter defense.
“Jaime’s basketball instincts are beyond his years,” Spoelstra said in a recent press conference. “He’s tough, competitive, and willing to do whatever the team needs. That’s the Heat way.”
Heading into the 2025 season, the coaching staff plans to give Jaquez more responsibility on both ends of the floor—possibly including more time as a secondary playmaker and late-game closer. With veteran wings like Jimmy Butler aging and the team’s offensive depth in flux, Jaquez is expected to help carry the scoring and leadership load.
Jaquez has spent the offseason working on his three-point shot and ball-handling, two areas that could unlock another level to his
