The transfer of Cruz back to his former coach Yeng Guiao began when NLEX traded Marion Magat for NorthPort Batang Pier’s second-round pick in the 2020 rookie draft. NorthPort then gave Magat and their second-round 2021 and 2022 draft picks to the Talk N’ Text KaTropa for both Cruz and Michael Miranda. For Cruz, NLEX had to sacrifice their 2019 and 2020 second-round draft picks to NorthPort.
In response to the trade, NLEX assistant coach Jojo Lastimosa said he “expects Cruz would be excited to play,” explaining, “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.”
Cruz, on the other hand, has not seen any PBA action for the past three months because he was placed under the restricted free agent list. After a rumoured disagreement with KaTropa team consultant Mark Dickel, the former Adamson Soaring Falcon was asked to stop attending practices.
As for Miranda, who is also part of the deal, he is awaiting eligibility to play after the ongoing Commissioner’s Cup as he was recently traded by the Road Warriors to Talk N Text when Poy Erram entered NLEX.
NLEX is hoping that their new addition will aid their current season run, which is at a 0-5 win-loss standing.