By Jorge Hernandez
The Mexican Gabriela Jaquez had a promising debut in the WNBA after participating decisively in the victory of Chicago Sky by 98-83 over Portland Firesidedebuting franchise in the 2026 season.
The 22-year-old player, selected with the number five overall in the most recent Draft of the WNBAcontributed 10 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 thefts in his first official game with the Chicago organization.
In addition to her offensive numbers, the graduate of UCLA She stood out for her maturity on the court and for playing 32 minutes, the most among all the rookies during the opening day.
Gabriela Jáquez responds with personality in her WNBA debut
The absence of veteran Natasha Cloud due to illness forced coach Tyler Marsh to modify the rotation of Chicago Skya situation that opened the door for Gabriela Jaquez assumed an important role from the start.
The Mexican responded with an efficient performance and no turnovers, a fact that caught attention considering the intensity of her professional debut.
Jáquez finished the game shooting 75 percent from the free throw line and hit the only three-pointer he attempted during the game.
His impact came at one of the most delicate moments of the meeting. After Portland Fireside cut the difference with an 11-0 run in the third quarter, the Mexican responded with five consecutive points that returned preserve watch over to Chicago.
He first attacked the rim after an assist from Kamilla Cardoso and later hit a long-distance triple after a pass from Rickea Jackson.
Chicago Sky had a balanced attack against Portland Fireside
The victory of Chicago Sky It was built thanks to a collective offense in which six players finished with double digits in points.
The Brazilian Kamilla Cardoso He led the team with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Skylar Diggins had a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds, in addition to seven assists.
The presence of Gabriela Jaquez In the starting lineup he was also important in the defensive aspect and in preserving rebounds. Chicago dominated that category by a resounding 46-24 margin.
The Mexican collaborated with two steals and was part of the defensive scheme that limited Portland to 40.8 percent field goal effectiveness.
Gabriela Jáquez aims to consolidate herself in Chicago Sky
The premiere of Gabriela Jaquez left good feelings inside Chicago Skya franchise that is betting on young talent to compete in the 2026 season of the WNBA.
The Mexican showed the ability to play without monopolizing the ball, open spaces in attack and respond in moments of pressure, qualities that could quickly make her an important piece within Tyler Marsh’s system.
After starting the campaign with a 1-0 record, Chicago will continue its road trip facing Golden Notify Valkyries and Phoenix Mercurywith the expectation of maintaining the good start of the season and continuing to promote the growth of the Mexican basketball player in the most important professional league in the world.
Continue reading:
· Jáquez family bursts with emotion after UCLA title: pride, tears and historic achievement
· Gabriela Jáquez gives the game of her life and UCLA wins its historic first title
· Spanish and Mexican guide UCLA to its first college basketball final
