I remember the first time I saw Onchie Dela Cruz play—it was during the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup, and even then, his court vision stood out like a beacon. Having followed Philippine basketball for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous players come and go, but Dela Cruz's journey feels particularly compelling, especially when you consider how his style resonates with international coaching philosophies. Just look at how Farm Fresh's Italian head coach Alessandro Lodi has praised BELLA Belen recently, highlighting how global perspectives are reshaping local talent evaluation. It's a trend that Dela Cruz, with his adaptable playmaking, embodies perfectly. In this piece, I'll walk you through his career highlights, latest updates, and why I believe he's one of the most underrated assets in the PBA today.
Dela Cruz's entry into the PBA back in 2015 was low-key, almost overshadowed by flashier rookies, but those of us who tracked his college days at San Beda knew he had something special. His rookie season with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters saw him average 7.2 points and 4.1 assists per game—modest numbers, sure, but his efficiency in clutch moments was undeniable. I recall a game against Barangay Ginebra where he dished out 8 assists without a single turnover, a stat that still impresses me. Over the years, he's evolved from a bench player to a reliable starter, not by chasing headlines but by honing his fundamentals. His 2019 season, for instance, was a turning point; he boosted his scoring to 11.5 points per game and led his team in steals, showing that defense can be as thrilling as offense when executed with precision.
Now, let's talk about the current landscape. The PBA has been leaning into more international influences, much like how Coach Lodi from Farm Fresh has embraced local talents like BELLA Belen, emphasizing their "unexpected brilliance" in fast breaks. Dela Cruz, in my view, fits this mold perfectly. His latest stint with the NLEX Road Warriors has been a revelation—he's not just a passer anymore but a floor general who reads defenses like a seasoned chess player. In the 2023 season, he posted career-high averages of 12.8 points and 6.3 assists, though I have to admit, I wish the official stats were more detailed; sometimes, the public data feels incomplete, so I cross-reference with game footage to get the full picture. What stands out to me is his synergy with younger players, almost mirroring how Lodi integrates Belen into Farm Fresh's system. Dela Cruz's ability to mentor rookies while maintaining his own performance is, frankly, something I'd love to see more veterans emulate.
But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. I've noticed Dela Cruz struggle with consistency in high-pressure playoffs, like in the 2022 finals where his shooting percentage dipped to 38%—a number that might not tell the whole story but hints at areas for growth. Still, his resilience is what keeps me rooting for him. Off the court, he's been involved in community programs, something I find refreshing in an era where athletes often focus solely on branding. His recent partnership with a local youth basketball clinic has already impacted over 200 kids, and while I don't have exact participation figures, the buzz on social media suggests it's making waves. Compare this to Belen's rise under Lodi's guidance, and you see a pattern: players who blend skill with heart are becoming the new gold standard.
Looking ahead, I'm optimistic about Dela Cruz's role in the PBA's evolving meta. The league is shifting toward faster, more collaborative play, and his experience makes him a key piece in that puzzle. If he can maintain his current trajectory, I wouldn't be surprised to see him crack the top 10 in all-time assists within the next two seasons—though, honestly, the official records might need updating to reflect his true impact. As a fan, I'd love for him to get more All-Star nods; he's earned it. Wrapping up, Dela Cruz's story isn't just about stats or wins; it's about how quiet dedication can shape a legacy, much like how Lodi's appreciation for Belen reminds us that greatness often lurks in the details. For anyone following Philippine basketball, keeping tabs on Dela Cruz isn't just recommended—it's essential.
