At 21, Jacey Cruz, the youngest applicant for the PBA Rookie Draft, pursues a unique path as a “balikbayan,” hoping to return home to play professional basketball. Cruz’s journey began over a decade ago when his family moved to Qatar.
“I was six, nearly seven when my father brought me there,” said Cruz, originally from Marikina.
Cruz is among 122 hopefuls, having played professional basketball in Qatar since he was 16. He almost returned to the Philippines earlier when he received offers from the University of the Philippines, College of St. Benilde, Letran, and San Sebastian but chose to remain in Qatar.
Standing at 5-foot-8, Cruz recently had his best season with Qatar Sports Club. “With my international league experience, I felt it was time to try,” he shared.
Cruz worked out with San Miguel Beer before showcasing his skills at the Draft Combine at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City. Observers noted his high basketball IQ and outside shooting ability, but it remains to be seen if he will impress teams on Draft Day.