(Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
Like all NBA rookies, Jaime Jaquez Jr. had the bizarre but wonderful experience of playing alongside the stars that he grew up idolizing.
One of those stars was Jimmy Butler, who seemingly took Jaquez under his wing when he joined the Miami Heat.
Speaking to Jason Timpf on The Volume, Jaquez spoke about getting to play with one of his heroes.
“Having one of your idols now become one of your teammates slash friends, it was such a cool experience,” Jaquez said, adding that he’s a very helpful and supportive teammate.
“Having one of your idols now become one of your teammates slash friends, it was such a cool experience”
—@jaquez_jr talks to @_JasonLT about his relationship with @JimmyButler pic.twitter.com/nG2zMO1GMI
— The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) July 24, 2024
Jaquez averaged 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists during his rookie year with the Heat.
He was a surprising and welcome bright spot for the team, especially because he shot 48.9% from the field.
Even though it was his rookie year, Jaquez got a lot of time on the court.
He played for an average of 28.2 minutes per game, a testament to just how much the team already trusts him.
He also got very close with Butler, who gave him advice, guided him, but also challenged him.
Jaquez told Timpf that he and Butler have played many one-on-one games and Butler has never gone easy on him.
But that is a good thing and it’s only helped him.
There are high expectations for Jaquez as his second season begins.
He could be an even bigger breakout star in 2024-25 if his game continues to impress.
And Butler should be alongside him the entire time.
There have been questions about his future with the Heat but it seems like Butler is remaining in Miami, at least for now.
That gives him more time to mentor Jaquez and turn him into an even better player.
The post Jamie Jaquez Jr Reveals What Jimmy Butler Is Like As A Teammate appeared first on The Cold Wire.