Preview at the Sacramento Summer League (13 points on average over two games), Jaime Jaquez Jr. continued his summer at the Heat facilities, with the start of training camp in his sights. In addition to acclimatizing to his new environment, he was able to work and get to know his future teammates.
They were thus able to offer him a first glimpse of the famous “Heat culture”.
“ That’s why I stayed here all summer. I didn’t want to train anywhere other than here. I really wanted to soak in what they’re doing, especially with the offseason work, and really soak it in.”he confided in an interview with the Miami Herald.
Kevin Love and Bam Adebayo to guide him
After contacting Udonis Haslem after the Draft, the Heat’s 18th pick continued his integration process during the summer by getting closer to the team’s other veterans. This is also an opportunity to take the pulse of the situation and understand a little better what awaits within three weeks.
“Kevin Love has been around a lot more, so it’s really nice to be able to talk with him”he added, specifying that he came from UCLA, like him. “Bam Adebayo is probably the one I’ve seen the most since I’ve been in Miami. He is always there. They just told me to stay calm and be ready to shoot when the ball comes at me. The season is going to be long, we have to take it slowly, one step after another, there will be ups and downs. You just have to stay consistent throughout the season.”
Cooler atmosphere with Jimmy Butler
Jaime Jaquez Jr. was also able to get closer to Jimmy Butler, with whom he took the time to relax while filming a commercial which should be released soon. He discovered the unique personality of the Heat leader, who clearly knew how to mix work and pleasure during the summer.
“To me, he seems to be the same person in real life as the one you see on TV. It doesn’t really change. He remains the same person. He’s a nice guy. I was able to chat with him, he is a great tennis player. He was all out during the US Open. He would take his phone to try to look at the scores while we were shooting. I found it hilarious”he continued.
The rookie now begins the final sprint of his preparation with clear ideas and precise objectives, on which he must concentrate to find a place in Erik Spoelstra’s rotation. After focusing on the physical aspect with the staff, the time has come to make the right adjustments on the basketball level.
“I’m just going to have to be able to put my shots in consistently, and defend. I think those are the two major things for this upcoming season”he concluded.
