Rookie hero Cruz: I just want to play

MANILA, Philippines–He’s a rookie, he’s every Rain or Shine fan’s newly minted favorite, and he’s humble.

When Elasto Painters rookie Jericho Cruz had the game of his young career, against a mighty Alaska Aces squad to boot, the former Adamson Soaring Falcon has his feet firmly on the ground.

“I never think that the game was a statement I just want to play and give my all,” Cruz said at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum Friday evening.

Rain or Shine’s only rookie delivered the dagger to the tin armor of Alaska with 18.5 seconds off a rebound putback and gave the Painters the sixth game in their win streak.

He finished with 16 points, on 6/7 shooting, six rebounds, four assists and three steals.

“I just want to make the most of my minutes, as you have seen I entered the game late in the first half,” Cruz said. “Just work and nothing more.”