Born in the Philippines but grew up in Guam, Jericho Cruz faces a tough challenge as his team takes on East Asia’s powerhouse China and Japan in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.
Jericho Cruz will see action in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers this month.
This after the Guam Basketball Confederation released the 12-man lineup including the San Miguel cager on Thursday, Nov. 14.
Coming off a 101-85 loss by the Beermen to Taoyuan in the East Asia Super League, the burly guard packs up and joins a team that currently holds a 1-1 record in Group C.
Guam will visit Hefei, China to take on the home team on Nov. 21 before hosting Japan three days later.
The Akatsuki Five lead Group C action with a 2-0 tally.
Jericho Cruz in action during San Miguel's match against Taoyuan last Wednesday, Nov. 13 | Photo (c) RM Chua/One Sports
[RELATED STORY: Fifth times the charm? Revisiting the encounters of Gilas Pilipinas and New Zealand in FIBA]
Born in the Philippines but grew up in Guam, Cruz averaged 11 points, four rebounds and two assists in the first round where his team also disposed of Mongolia, 74-63.
Against powerhouse Japan, he was among the few bright spots for Guam after turning in 12 points, four rebounds, an assist and two steals.
His mettle will be tested again East Asia’s juggernauts in China and Japan.