Cruz put up over 500 points during his junior season and is looking to repeat the feat in 2026-27. The 5’10 guard has a clean shooting stroke as he wastes little motion and can get hot from distance in a hurry. Cruz moves well without the ball in his hands, freeing himself for open jumpers and layups in the half court. He rarely forces jumpers in the half court and is an underrated defender. Cruz is a sharpshooting guard prospect who should torch the nets from distance this season.

Although undersized for his position, AJ Cruz AJ Cruz 5'10" | CG Bloomfield | 2027 State NJ still consistently proves to be a reliable and productive guard that plays with notable composure and control, consistently influencing the game in multiple facets— demonstrating his ability to convert shots from beyond the arc, flashes of initiating offense and creating scoring chances for teammates, driving into the lane off the bounce with a soft finishing touch, and being equally as impactful on the defensive end containing drives and playing with good anticipation skills to turn opposing ball handlers over and into easy offense.

Cruz provided some scoring pop for his Slow-Mo team. He scored the basketball in many different ways throughout the game. He touched the paint when going downhill. Cruz connected on a few three pointers and needs to be respected if he is behind the three point line. He is very crafty when he has the ball in his hands. Cruz also found ways to turn defense to offense

Emerging as a standout guard in Bloomfield’s backcourt with extremely productive and reliable play, AJ Cruz AJ Cruz 5'10" | CG Bloomfield | 2027 State NJ plays with strong poise and a high level of control, consistently impacting the game in a variety of ways. Cruz showcased his ability to knock down outside shots from beyond the arc, initiate offense and facilitate the basketball to others in advantageous scoring opportunities, and attack the paint to finish with soft touch. A seamless offensive fit, Cruz clearly shows the ability to be effective and productive at either guard position.