Q&A with Liz Cruz (2020)
The state of Arizona is loaded with multi-sport athletes and one of the best might not jump out at you right away. Liz Cruz is a 5’10 forward with a ton of skill and athleticism. Cruz is one of the players in the state that will certainly turn your head when you see her play. She is a big body on the inside capable of scoring at the rim, but she also has the ability to stretch it out and knock down shots from the perimeter. Cruz is trying to mold her game into more of a guard oriented role and will need to get quicker and faster to defend perimeter players. This past season Cruz scored 7.9 points and grabbed 7.2 rebounds for Casteel High School while leading them to a 18-12 season.
Cruz is trying to transform her game this season and so far it has been working for her. She is one of the few players in the state that have the ability to pop out and shoot it well all while standing 5’10. If she can continue working on her game she could become a point forward of sorts. Cruz has the drive and determination to make it to the next level. She is having a good summer so far and is starting to attract a ton of suitors. Cruz has an extensive background in athletics and it isn’t going to start when she graduates high school. I talked with her about this past year, AAU, recruiting, and more below.
How’d you think this past high school season went?
This past high school season went extremely well in my opinion, we surprised a lot of people. Made it to the final four. And did what we could to get better. As we were placed with the “underdog” title coming from 3A to 5A. We all wanted it, putting all our energy in to go far.
How do you think your AAU season is going this year?
The AAU season is also going very well. I have a fantastic coach who is guiding me to become the best basketball player I can be and trying to get me to the next level. She sees me becoming a guard and I couldn’t agree with her more. I am versatile in the paint but I think I’ll be a way bigger threat when I’m out hitting threes also. She’s been working with me a lot and I am very blessed to have her as my AAU coach.
What are you working on the most this summer?
My basketball handles and shot are what I’ve been focusing on the most this summer. I usually play the power forward position but I have been working to be a shooting guard and working on perfecting my shot.
What are your goals for the rest of the summer?
My goal this summer is to completely turn my game around and become an extremely strong player. I’m 5’10 with a 24 inch vertical. I want to become a threat wherever. Being able to drive and finish while also being able to shoot anywhere.
How’s the recruiting process going for you?
The recruiting process has been going well. Being invited to lots of camps and meeting just as many coaches who have the same vision as me. I am really hoping for a school that’ll push me as hard as possible and continue my basketball dream.