Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. shares his secret passion off the court

Jaime Jaquez Jr. has been having a phenomenal rookie season for the Miami Heat, averaging 12.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on 29.4 minutes per night. The 23-year-old has had success in his 4 years at UCLA and in his short NBA career (as he is 4th in the Rookie of the Year race) but he has a secret passion off the court that his teammates just discovered.

Former All-Star Kevin Love has been discussing with his teammates about a possible trip to Napa Valley in the midst of their 6-game road journey. Jaquez mentioned that he was the most excited about this visit, and eventually all his teammates shared the same enthusiasm.

When asked about his excitement towards this trip, the Heat rookie stated that he has a secret goal that nobody really knows about. He said that he is on his way to being a wine connoisseur and that once he's retired, he would like to be a sommelier in the restaurant business.

This is a different post-NBA path that retired players strive for, but the former UCLA Bruin is passionate about his wine. His teammates all support him and love how open he is off the court. Bam Adebayo stated that he loves how Jaquez gels with the team off the court and that this chemistry can be shown on the court when they are having success.

Caleb Martin chimed in as well, stating that the rookie is a sponge. He is always listening and learning to every piece of advice they give him and they love having him around because of his attitude and personality. Everyone can see him grow and develop, and he will only continue to get better.

Jaquez appreciated all the kind words from his teammates and how supportive they were of his passion. He closed out by stating that he has always been interested and fascinated in the time, education, and exquisiteness people put into wine.