Skip to main content
Join Now
Team Avatar
UCLA

Mick Cronin provides update on Jaime Jaquez Jr.

IMG_0985by: Griffin McVeigh03/22/22griffin_mcveigh

Head coach Mick Cronin once again has the UCLA Bruins making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, with a Sweet Sixteen matchup against the North Carolina Tar Heels three days away. However, they could be without one of their best players, Jaime Jaquez Jr., who is dealing with an ankle injury.

Cronin provided an update on one of the Bruins star players, saying Jaquez did not practice on Tuesday. He is still considered day to day but has a chance to play against North Carolina.

Jaquez has played in 33 games this year for UCLA, steadily improving from last season’s Final Four run. The forward has averaged 14 points per game throughout the year, good enough to be the team’s second-leading scorer. Additionally, Jaquez has averaged 5.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists.

Shortly after Cronin announced Jaquez did not practice, the forward was seen walking onto the UCLA team bus, preparing to travel.

So far in the NCAA Tournament, Jaquez has put up two solid performances, having 15 points against both Akron and St. Mary’s. If UCLA is going to be able to get past North Carolina and appear in their second consecutive Elite Eight appearance, Jaquez will not only to be in the lineup but have solid performances.

Former NFL head doctor gives take on Jaime Jaquez injury

Former NFL doctor Dr. David Chao saw the Jaquez injury and provided his insight. With the Bruins set to take on North Carolina in the Sweet 16, he broke down what he saw and when you can expect him back.

“Inversion sprain. Typical inversion sprain to his right ankle. Typical for basketball players, and he left the game returned with ice etc. He limped off… but was able to put weight on it. I believe he could have returned to the game with the tape and limited success.”

“I believe he will play and will be reasonably effective. For us, he carries a S.I.C score of 81 right now but I might upgrade that, said Chao.“

Dr. Chao closes with a detailed final assessment and explains why UCLA fans should expect to see Jaquez ready to go come Friday night.

“ …And here’s the deal, even though the video doesn’t look great, I don’t think there’s any new damage to his lateral ankle ligaments. It’s a standard inversion ankle sprain not eversion. Because it’s chronic laxity that causes the sprain not new acute tear, I think UCLA and their medical staff will be able to control the swelling. And I expect to see Jamie Jaquez Jr being effective and playing,” said Chao.