What if?
It’s hard not to think about the what if’s and the what could’ve been in every decision that we make. For a basketball player, the rookie draft can either make or break the path of your career.
Back in 2014, Jericho Cruz, a player who did not utilize his final year of eligibility with Adamson University, was an unknown commodity. Yes he was a flat out scorer but was he ready for the big league?
Then-Rain or Shine head coach Yeng Guiao surprisingly picked Cruz as the ninth overall pick in that draft. This pick was somewhat a surprise as he was selected over David Semerad, Rome dela Rosa, and Harold Arboleda — all of whom were already ripe for the pros back then.
Cruz was immediately able to break in to Guiao’s rotation, averaging 19.2 minutes in his rookie game. From there, the 26-year-old became a solid contributor for the franchise for the last three years.
The Filipino-Northern Mariana Islander could not help but reflect on the time he spent with Guiao after Rain or Shine’s 107-97 win over Guiao’s NLEX Road Warriors. Up to this day, he can never forget the trust given to him by the fiery mentor, who even became a godfather to his wedding a year ago.
Coach Yeng Guiao and the Elasto Painters have been the most consistent team in the PBA, making seven straight semifinals appearances
“Of course, that’s my ninong,” remarked the 6-foot-1 guard if there was extra motivation for him entering the game.
“I have nothing but respect for coach Yeng. I just want to come out and show him that I got better and that I apply the things that he taught me. I’m just so happy that we won that game.”
Cruz himself was uncanny during that game, scoring on an array of tough shots — including two buzzer-beating baskets that sealed the game with three minutes left. He finished the game with 19 points, six rebounds, and four assists. For him, this was a way to show his former mentor how far he has grown as a player.
“The reason that I play like this is because of him. Siguro, pag hindi siya yung nag-draft sa akin, I don’t know where I will be.
“I’m just thankful that I spent my first two years with coach Yeng. It was a great experience for me. It’s a blessing that he came into my life,” he shared.
Though they are now donning different colors, fighting for a different fan base and franchise, Cruz knows that he is in the right place. And it was all because of the gamble Guiao made that one faithful night in 2014.
