Gabriela Jaquez is living her dream. After being selected No. 5 overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft on April 13, the 22-year-old UCLA star is officially heading to Chicago to play for the Sky. It’s a moment that feels like destiny for Jaquez, whose family is practically synonymous with athletic excellence. Her older brother, Jaime Jaquez Jr., was drafted into the NBA by the Miami Heat three years ago, and her parents, Angela and Jaime Sr., were collegiate basketball players themselves. Now, Gabriela continues the legacy with her own spotlight moment.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriela Jaquez was drafted No. 5 overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft to the Chicago Sky.
- Her selection follows UCLA’s NCAA championship win, where Jaquez played a key role.
- The Jaquez family has a rich sports legacy, with her older brother Jaime playing in the NBA for the Miami Heat.
- Gabriela is embracing the rapid growth and attention on women’s sports.
- She’s also venturing into fashion with a JCPenney campaign inspired by WNBA tunnel walks.
The Road to the WNBA
Gabriela’s rise to professional basketball has been nothing short of spectacular. Just days before the draft, she helped lead UCLA to a historic NCAA championship win, beating the South Carolina Gamecocks in a decisive 79–51 victory. Her performance in the final game — showcasing defensive prowess and scoring ability — confirmed what scouts already knew: she’s a star in the making. “We weren’t going to be denied,” Jaquez said in an interview with Bustle, highlighting the team’s confidence and cohesion.
That confidence stemmed from UCLA’s experienced roster, which included six seniors. Their maturity and chemistry on the court were key factors in their championship run. “We made it hard for other teams to make shots,” Jaquez added, emphasizing their strategic defense. For Gabriela, the championship wasn’t just a milestone; it was the culmination of years of hard work and dreams — a moment she had envisioned countless times.
A Family Affair
For the Jaquez family, sports are a bonding experience as much as they are a career path. Gabriela’s older brother, Jaime, was present at the NCAA championship game despite his demanding NBA schedule, flying out to Arizona to support his sister. Their connection runs deeper than basketball; Gabriela revealed that their FaceTime chats often revolve around fashion, social media, and life updates rather than game stats.
Her younger brother, Marcos, who plays football for Ventura College, rounds out the trio of athletic siblings. Gabriela describes herself as having “middle child energy,” balancing her role as a little sister to Jaime and a big sister to Marcos. Competitive spirit is a family trait, as Gabriela admitted to frequent one-on-one basketball matchups with her brothers. “Some of them go my way, and some of them don’t,” she laughed.
Making History With UCLA
Gabriela’s draft night was about more than personal achievement; it also marked a historic moment for UCLA. She was one of five first-round picks from the school, alongside Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Angela Dugalic, Gianna Kneepkens, and Charlisse Leger-Walker. It’s the first time in WNBA history that one college has had so many players selected in a single draft.
The camaraderie among the UCLA players was evident as they celebrated together at the draft event. Their shared success speaks to the strength of the program and the leadership of their coach, Cori Close, whom Gabriela affectionately credits for guiding them through their championship journey.
Beyond Basketball
With her WNBA career officially underway, Gabriela is also expanding her presence off the court. This spring, she launched a partnership with JCPenney for its “Inside Lane” campaign, which features clothing inspired by the WNBA’s tunnel walks — a beloved tradition where players showcase their personal style before games. For Gabriela, the partnership is an exciting opportunity to blend her love of fashion with her athletic career.
Her enthusiasm for women’s sports extends beyond her own achievements. “I love the trajectory of the league right now,” she told Bustle, noting the increasing attention on the WNBA and women’s sports in general. Gabriela’s entry into the league comes at a pivotal time, as athletes like her continue to break barriers and redefine what’s possible for women in professional sports.
What This Means for You
Gabriela Jaquez’s story is more than a tale of athletic triumph; it’s a reminder of the power of family, determination, and community. Her success invites us to reflect on the importance of support systems — whether it’s the family flying across the country to cheer you on or the teammates who celebrate your achievements as their own.
For readers who are chasing their own dreams, Gabriela’s journey illustrates the value of persistence and staying true to your passions. Whether you’re working toward a career milestone or finding ways to express yourself creatively (hello, tunnel walk fashion inspiration), her story is proof that hard work and joy can coexist beautifully.
And for those who love sports, Gabriela’s draft night signals an exciting era for the WNBA. With rising stars like her stepping onto the court, women’s sports are entering a new chapter that’s worth every moment of attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Gabriela Jaquez make her WNBA debut?
Gabriela will play her first game for the Chicago Sky on May 9, 2026.
How many UCLA players were drafted in 2026?
Six players from UCLA were drafted, with five going in the first round — a WNBA record.
What is Gabriela Jaquez’s partnership with JCPenney?
Gabriela is part of JCPenney’s “Inside Lane” campaign, featuring clothing inspired by WNBA tunnel walks.
