MANILA, Philippines–The youngest applicant of the PBA Rookie Draft is taking a unique path as a “balikbayan” seeking a chance to play pro ball back home.

Jacey Cruz, 21, will look to be among those selected in Sunday’s proceedings after a journey that started when his family migrated to Qatar more than a decade ago.

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“I was six turning seven years old when my father brought me there,” Cruz, who is originally from Marikina, said.

Cruz is one of 122 applicants, carrying credentials of having played professional basketball in Qatar since he was 16.

He almost returned to the country at an earlier age when Cruz got offers from the University of the Philippines along with College of St. Benilde, Letran and San Sebastian, Cruz recalled. In the end, Cruz decided to stay in Qatar.

The 5-foot-8 guard was coming off a season with Qatar Sports Club, which he felt was his “best season.”

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“I think for me, having an experience playing in an international league, it was time for me to try,” he said.

Cruz got a chance to work out with San Miguel Beer, before displaying his game during the two-day Draft Combine at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Observers saw Cruz as someone who has a high IQ with the capability of shooting the outside. Whether that would impress teams will be known come Draft Day.