Miami Heat’s Mexican-American rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr was invited to the White House on Monday to speak alongside Joe Biden at the President’s Cinco de Mayo reception.
Jaquez, who was selected by Miami with the No.18 pick at last year’s NBA Draft, spoke of his pride at continuing the legacy of Mexican-Americans and pushing traditions ‘that make the spirit of our people so great’.
I stand here before you on the shoulders of giants,’ the 23-year-old told the crowd in attendance.
‘There are generations of proud and incredibly accomplished Mexican-Americans that came before me. I am proud to continue their legacy and continue to push the traditions of Mexican-Americans that make the spirit of our people so great. A tradition and spirit that is principled on hard work, a strong moral code and the importance of family.
‘Thank you, President Biden and the administration for celebrating our community and all our contributions here today.’
Jaquez then introduced Biden, who thanked the NBA star before commending him on a terrific rookie season with Miami – which saw him average 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game.
‘Jaime thanks for the introduction pal, I’ve always looked up to you…’ he joked with the 6ft 6in basketball player. ‘Congratulations on a great rookie season in the NBA.
‘As you said, you stand on the shoulders of those who came before you. Future generations will stand on your six-foot-six shoulders and be a hell of a lot taller man.’
Jaquez helped the Heat reach the NBA playoffs in his debut season in Miami, yet they failed to make it past Round 1 after a 4-1 defeat to the Boston Celtics.
Following their elimination, the ex-UCLA guard attended last weekend’s Miami Grand Prix along with teammates Jimmy Butler, Kevin Love and Duncan Robinson.
The Heat quartet were joined by sporting royalty at a beach party in the wake of Sunday’s race, which McLaren’s Lando Norris prevailed in to finally claim his first ever F1 victory.
Super Bowl champions Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs attended the festivities at Carbone Beach, while Miami Dolphins star Tyreek Hill and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow were also on the elite guest list.
NBA royalty LeBron James and Kevin Durant were also spotted at the event, along with basketball bad-boy Draymond Green.
