Artaechevarria was a major reason behind St. Mary’s continued success and a clear boost to his stock during play in January. With seven games in double figures and a high of 17 points, he showed consistent scoring while impacting every area of the floor. He rebounds, facilitates and applies constant pressure on defenses with his activity and decision making. Just as important, he’s emerging as a trusted leader, someone teammates rely on in key moments. His ability to stay productive while handling big responsibilities has made him a true do it all presence and a difference maker as the season progresses

Artaechevarria has really begun to emerge at St. Mary’s, and his growth is impossible to miss. A sophomore captain and natural leader, he’s clearly put in the work, and it’s paying off on the court. He’s confident putting the ball on the deck, attacking the rim and carving out space to get to his midrange spots. Everything looks more controlled and purposeful now. He’s playing with a new level of confidence, and when you watch him, you can feel it in every possession

He’s a bigger guard who stood out with his ability to cut and find holes in the defense, using size to overpower smaller matchups. He showed flashes of a back-to-the-basket game and creativity finishing around the rim. In the 3 on 3 portion of the event, he scored with ease and refused to let players score on him. With his size and skill, the next step is becoming more assertive as a player who demands the double team and either makes the extra pass or takes advantage of smaller guards.

What we know: 

We know that Cruz is a wing with good size who played varsity as a freshman. He was a core member that will have high expectations coming into his sophomore season, and this will be a chance to prove that he belongs amongst the top players in his class. We also know that he was a valuable piece for Pluto Prospects that the offense ran through at times due to his versatility. That versatility should make him a difference maker. 

What we’d like to see: 

We’d like to see if that size and skill translate in a free-flowing setting where he has to go out and make plays happen. I want to see how much of it is instinct and not having plays run through him if he’s able to affect the game. With his size and ability to plan on and off-ball, we’d like to see him score a bit more as well as defend both guards and bigs. He should be able to make an impact on the day as a two-way standout. Big opportunity for him to prove himself and rise. 

Cruz Artaechevarria made an immediate impact as a 6’1 wing who earned varsity minutes from the jump. He averaged 6.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and two assists per game, proving to be a consistent contributor. Cruz plays with an edge as he attacks the rim aggressively, gets to the free-throw line, scores through contact, and isn’t afraid to crash the boards for second-chance points. His midrange pull-up is a go-to, and his high motor keeps him engaged on both ends. The next step in his development will be adding a more reliable outside shot to expand his offensive versatility.