Ana Cruz’s journey begins in the vibrant streets of Barcelona, where she first dribbled a basketball with the innocence of a child and the fervor of a future star. By sixteen, she was taking the court in Spain’s top league with UB-Barça, already a whirlwind of talent in a world dominated by much older players. But success, though it came in the form of two league titles, wasn’t linear. The early hours spent training were marred by sporadic playtime, compelling her to seek opportunity elsewhere.

The transition to clubs like CB Ciudad de Burgos and Rivas Ecópolis saw her grasp more than just experience—she clinched cups and made waves in the EuroLeague, yet something about the professional grind remained elusive. In 2013, she took a leap of faith; trading the familiar scenery of Spain for the demanding courts of Russia, she played fiercely, balancing her time with the New York Liberty and later, the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA, where she found championship glory.

Representing Spain felt like a second home. Cruz began her international career as a teenager, tasting both triumph and heartbreak. That unforgettable buzzer-beater against Turkey in the Rio Olympics would immortalize her in national lore, a moment where time stood still for a heartbeat. With 158 caps under her belt and participation in multiple World Championships and Olympic Games, she carved out a legacy that was as much about relentless hustle as it was about the accolades adorning her career.

Yet, like any true athlete, it was never just about the medals for Cruz. It was the rhythm of the game that spoke to her spirit, the camaraderie that kept her grounded, and the sound of the ball echoing against the court that whispered promises of tomorrow. She returned to Spain in 2020, not just to play, but to remind herself of those roots that started her journey both as a player and person.