June 5, 2006
This story originally appeared in the June 4, 2006 edition of the Knoxville News Sentinel.
Trip more than hoops for Cruze
By Jamar Hudson
When the Holy Cross men's basketball team went to Puerto Rico last December for the annual San Juan Shootout, Kyle Cruze's eyes were opened.
The travel agencies, brochures and Web sites hadn't told him the whole story. Sure, the exotic beaches and warm weather were enticing, but left out were the poverty-ridden neighborhoods, the run down schools and the unsanitary living conditions Cruze came across that week.
The fact that Holy Cross lost two of its three games didn't matter. Cruze saw how good he had it growing up in the United States.
"It was kind of a reality check," Cruze said. "It's an everyday survival down there.
"It allows you appreciate what you have."
For a young man who once viewed basketball as heaven, the sport was put in perspective and Cruze realized there were more pressing issues than basketball.
But at the same time, he realized he still could use the sport he loved to share his faith.
He'll get the chance this month.
The former Bearden High School standout was selected to play with an international touring basketball team for Athletes in Action.
Cruze, who is active in the campus chapter of Athletes in Action, heard about the team through word of mouth. The team doesn't hold a physical tryout, yet accepts applications. Cruze applied and was named to the 12-man roster.
Led by former Bryan College coach Morris Michalski, the team is comprised of current and former college basketball players from across the country. It will participate in a two-week, 12-game tour of the Philippines beginning June 23.
Athletes in Action, founded in 1966, is a part of Campus for Christ International. It was started with the hope that athletes would use sports as an avenue to promote Jesus and Christian ministry around the world. Athletes in Action has sent touring teams to the Philippines for more than 20 years.
So aside from the competition, team members will provide services to people in the communities where they will be playing.
"It's an honor to first and foremost go and serve Christ and spread the gospel to those who haven't heard about it," Cruze said.
Not only is Cruze excited about the opportunity to minister in the Philippines, the 6-foot-2 guard will get a taste of international competition as the AIA team will face an eclectic mix of teams, including the Filipino national team and professional teams from Asia.
"Basketball is kind of blowing up over there," Cruze said. "The fans just love it when Americans come over to play. There's a lot of fan interaction."
Who knows, it might [motivate] Cruze to consider a professional basketball career overseas after he graduates.
"Possibly," Cruze said. "I've never experienced anything like this. Playing overseas, there's a different style of play and better competition."
Cruze just completed his second season at Holy Cross, a Patriot League school in Worcester, Mass. The Crusaders were 20-12, losing to Bucknell in the conference championship game. Cruze, an economics major, averaged 1.1 points per game in 19 appearances. Known as one of the most accurate 3-point shooters during his time at Bearden High School, Cruze has learned that it takes more than a good jump shot to be a successful Division I player.
"As a player in college it forced you to become a complete player," Cruze said. "You're really forced to round out your game."
Not only did he have to adjust his game, life off the court caught him off guard as well.
Said Cruze: "The thing that stood out to me was how generous and hospitable people were. People have misconceptions about the northeast, just as they do about the southeast."
Cruze said he doesn't get back home that often anymore due to off season workouts and summer programs he's involved with, although some may dispute his reasons for staying away.
After creating a firestorm in the Knoxville prep scene in 2003 by quitting the Bulldogs right before the district tournament, Cruze spent a year at Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia before earning a scholarship.
While the incident still comes up whenever Cruze's name is mentioned, the 22-year-old still stands by the decision he made and holds no grudges against anyone.
"Since the day that happened it's just been something that has affected my life," Cruze said. "As many people that disagreed with me, there were just as many who were on my side.
"That's home. That's where my family is. It will always be home."
Cruze and the rest of his teammates will begin a five-day training camp on June 18 in Dayton, Ohio, in preparation for their overseas trip.
