The former Adamson University standout Jericho Cruz will once again join forces with coach Yeng Guiao this time for the NLEX Road Warriors squad.
It was three-team trade to complete the transfer of Cruz to NLEX. NorthPort Batang Pier and TNT KaTropa were the other two parties.
Initially, the Road Warriors have shipped Marion Magat in exchange for Batang Pier’s 2020 second round pick.
The NorthPort swap Magat and its second round picks for 2021 and 2022 to TNT for them to acquire Michael Miranda and Jericho Cruz.
To seal the deal, the Batang Pier sent Cruz to NLEX in exchange for Road Warriors 2019 and 2020 second round draft rights.
Cruz had his last stint with the KaTropa at their last game during the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup elimination round.
He averaged 8.6 points and a steal in his six games with Talk ‘N Text in the All-Filipino tournament.
Though looking at that stat-line seems not so stuffed but the intangibles of what Jericho brings to the team is what his new team are seeking.
“I expect he’d be excited to play,” NLEX assistant coach Jojo Lastimosa said of Cruz. “He brings a lot of veteran poise in him.”
“He’s a dynamic player who can create his own shot and penetrate—that’s what we need. His excitement is something I look forward to him showing on the court,” JoLas added.
Cruz and coach Guiao had a championship success when they were together under the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in 2016 where they took home the 2016 PBA Commissioner’s Cup trophy.
Later in that year (2016) he was named as the PBA Most Improved Player.