PBA Draft Focus: Art Dela Cruz out to prove he can also deliver in PBA
Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
He is one of the many second-generation players who are taking their shot at the PBA.
For Art dela Cruz, it’s also chance of prove that he can also deliver in the pros like what he did in the collegiate ranks.
“All I want is to prove that I deserve whatever spot I get picked. I’ll give my best whoever picks me,” said the son of Barako Bull assistant coach Art dela Cruz.
The 23-year-old forward knows that his performance in his last year in the NCAA is going leave an impression with the scouts, that’s why he’s not leaving anything to chance.
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“Whatever the result of my game here in NCAA will show in the Draft. I need to prove every game that I deserve to be drafted.”
Dela Cruz has been impressive so far for San Bed with a average of 20.67 points, 14.17 rebounds, 5.67 assists, and 1.17 steals through six games to lead early in the MVP race in Season 91.
Aside from towing the Red Lions to another title, Dela Cruz is also using his game to show everyone that he’s worth a second look.
“I feel this would be a big boost because I’m getting the exposure I need and the people get a chance to know what I can do for teams,” dela Cruz said.
With his fruitful collegiate career set to end, he’s just excited to open another chapter in his career in Asia’s oldest professional basketball league.
“I want to play in the PBA. I’ve been playing for a long time here in the collegiate ranks.
People are telling me to pass on the Draft and still get experience from the D-League, but I decided to enter because I don’t want to sit out another year,” dela Cruz said,
Dela Cruz’ focus is not on getting picked ahead of the pack, but rather on showing he deserves a spot in the PBA.
“I expect a number of players I know to get picked first, but we don’t know what will happen in the Draft. All I know is I have to show that I can fare well in the PBA,” he said.
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