The Indiana Fever, already boasting a bright future with Caitlin Clark at the helm, could be on the verge of adding the perfect supporting piece in next week's WNBA Draft. With the 10th overall pick, all eyes in Indianapolis might turn to UCLA's Gabriela Jaquez, a player many analysts believe is a seamless fit.
Jaquez isn't just any prospect; she's a proven winner with a championship pedigree. She etched her name in the history books during UCLA's title run, becoming just the fifth player ever to record 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists in an NCAA championship game. That kind of all-around, high-stakes performance is exactly what contending teams covet.
Her potential role alongside a superstar like Caitlin Clark is what makes this pairing so intriguing. Analysts, including Bleacher Report's Hunter Cruse, note that Jaquez "never stops moving on both ends" and represents a perfect schematic fit. Her high basketball IQ and relentless activity as a cutter could create a dynamic offensive synergy, providing Clark with a reliable target and opening up the floor. While her three-point shooting consistency will be a key area to watch at the pro level, her fearlessness and competitive fire are already WNBA-ready.
In fact, the buzz around Jaquez extends beyond the mock drafts. UCLA coach Cori Close has shared that her former players now in the WNBA are actively hoping their teams draft Jaquez, a testament to the immediate respect she commands. For a Fever team looking to build a championship-caliber roster around Clark, selecting a player of Jaquez's proven talent and complementary skill set at pick No. 10 could be the ultimate value selection, turning a strong core into a legitimate title threat.