Matt Cross has made a significant move in his college basketball career by transferring to SMU, where he will serve as a starting forward.
His experience and skills are expected to be vital for the Mustangs as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
Cross, a former standout at UMass, is known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court, attributes that will enhance SMU’s offensive strategies.
Cross is not the only player drawing attention at SMU. With the support of teammates like Josh Cohen and guidance from Coach Frank Martin, he is in a good position to thrive.
The Mustangs are looking to build a strong roster, and players like Keon Thompson and Robert Davis Jr. will likely benefit from Cross’s presence.
As fans watch this new chapter unfold, the focus will be on not just Cross’s on-court performance but also how his background influences his impact at SMU.
His journey through college basketball, including stops at Central Connecticut State and beyond, has shaped him into a player with high expectations and a bright future ahead.
Who Is Matt Cross?
Matt Cross is a promising player on the SMU Mustangs men’s basketball team, known for his skills on the court and his journey through various basketball programs. His background, family, personal life, and online presence offer insights into who he is beyond just a player.
Where Did Matt Cross Grow Up?
Matt Cross grew up in the city of Winchester, Massachusetts. This suburban area is located near Boston, where he developed his love for basketball at a young age.
His first experiences on the court happened during his time in high school, where he played at the prestigious Brewster Academy.
Brewster Academy is known for its strong basketball program that attracts many talented athletes. There, Cross honed his skills, improving his shooting and gameplay. His talent began to shine through, leading him to become a four-star recruit.
Who Are Matt Cross’ Parents?
Matt Cross is the son of Barbara and Mark Cross. His parents have been supportive of his basketball career from an early age.
They encouraged him to pursue his passion and provided guidance through important decisions, such as choosing basketball as a career path.
His father, Mark, has often been credited with influencing his work ethic and dedication to the sport. Family support has played a significant role in his journey, helping him navigate the challenges he faced while growing up.
Who Is Matt Cross Dating?
As of now, there is no confirmed public information about Matt Cross’s dating life.
He tends to keep his personal relationships private, which is common among student-athletes.
Focusing on his career and academics is a priority for Cross, and he might not want to bring media attention to his personal life.
While there have been indications of friendships with fellow athletes, no specifics have been reported. This privacy helps him concentrate on his performance on the basketball court.
What Car Does Matt Cross Drive?
Details about the specific car Matt Cross drives are not publicly available.
Athletes often maintain some level of privacy regarding their personal possessions, including vehicles.
However, it’s common for college athletes to drive cars that reflect their style and personality.
Cross, like many of his peers, may prefer practical options that fit within a college student budget while also being suitable for commuting to practices and games.
Matt Cross’ Social Media Presence
Matt Cross is active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where he shares updates about his basketball journey, workouts, and personal interests.
He interacts with fans and other players, contributing to his growing popularity.
His posts often showcase highlights from games and training sessions, providing a glimpse into his life as a college athlete. Engaging with followers allows Cross to build a fan base that supports him on and off the court.
How to Get in Contact with Matt Cross
Reaching out to Matt Cross can be done through social media platforms where he is active.
Fans interested in contacting him can follow his accounts and send direct messages or comments.
For official inquiries, such as interviews or collaborations, it’s best to go through the SMU athletics department. They can provide appropriate channels for communication. Connecting through these avenues ensures that messages reach him in a professional manner.
Matt Cross’ High School Basketball Career
Matt Cross had an impressive high school basketball career that set the stage for his future in college basketball. His skills and achievements caught the attention of many coaches, earning him notable recognition and recruitment opportunities.
Where Did Matt Cross Attend High School?
Matt Cross attended Brewster Academy in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. This prep school is known for its strong basketball program and has produced several professional players. It provided Cross with a competitive environment to hone his skills.
During his time at Brewster, he showcased his talent against some of the best high school players in the nation, enhancing his visibility among recruiters.
What Were Matt Cross’ Stats in High School?
During his senior season at Brewster Academy, Matt Cross averaged 20.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
His performance was pivotal, demonstrating not only his scoring ability but also his versatility on the court.
Cross was known for his strong shooting skills and his ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. These statistics contributed to his reputation as a high-caliber player heading into college basketball.
What Awards Did Matt Cross Win in High School?
In high school, Matt Cross earned several accolades that highlighted his talent.
He was named a First Team All-Atlantic 10 selection, showcasing his skills among the best players in the league.
Additionally, he received recognition from 247Sports, further emphasizing his status as a top recruit.
These awards played a crucial role in boosting his recruitment profile and affirming his abilities as a standout player.
What Schools Recruited Matt Cross?
Cross attracted interest from multiple college programs during his recruitment process.
Schools such as Louisville and Miami showed significant interest, recognizing his potential as a future star.
His impressive high school performance made him a sought-after recruit. Ultimately, his decision led him to play at Louisville before transferring to SMU. This journey illustrated not just his talent but also his ambition to excel at a higher level.
Matt Cross’ College Basketball Career
Matt Cross has made a notable impact in college basketball throughout his career. His performance across different schools highlights his skills as a forward, especially in scoring and rebounding. This section covers his NCAA performance, awards, draft projection, and comparisons to similar players.
How Has Matt Cross Performed in the NCAA?
Matt Cross began his college basketball career at the University of Miami before transferring to the University of Louisville.
He averaged 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game during his time with the Cardinals. His consistent performances helped him transition smoothly to UMass, where he played a vital role in their lineup.
At UMass, he earned recognition in the Atlantic 10 Conference, showcasing his ability to score and secure rebounds.
In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 14 points per game and recorded several double-doubles, including a career-high 28 points against Davidson. His shooting percentages improved significantly, demonstrating his growth as a player.
Has Matt Cross Won Any NCAA Awards?
During his college career, Matt Cross earned several honors that underscore his talent.
He was selected as an Atlantic 10 First-Team player for the 2023-24 season, showcasing his elite status in the conference.
Additionally, he received recognition as a NABC All-District Selection, marking him as one of the top players in the region.
These awards highlight his scoring ability and overall contributions on the court.
His time in Miami and Louisville, although marked by competition, helped him gain valuable experience. This strong foundation laid the groundwork for his successful tenure at UMass.
What Is Matt Cross’ NBA Draft Projection?
As of now, Matt Cross is projected to enter the NBA Draft after the 2023-24 season.
His scoring ability, solid rebounding skills, and experience from competing in Power 6 schools have improved his draft stock.
Scouts are particularly interested in his size, standing at 6’7″, and his versatility as a forward.
He has the potential to fill the role of a wing player in the NBA. If he continues to develop his shooting, he could be a valuable pick.
While opinions vary, many expect him to be drafted in the mid to late rounds, depending on his performance in the remaining season.
Similar Players to Matt Cross
Matt Cross shares playing styles with several players who have transitioned from college to professional basketball.
For instance, players like Jae Crowder and Justin Jackson exhibit similar skills in scoring and rebounding as forwards.
These comparisons may provide insights into Cross’s potential in the NBA. Like them, Cross has shown the ability to score from the perimeter while also being effective in the paint. His versatility will be key as he attempts to secure a spot in the professional ranks.
Matt Cross NIL, Transfer Portal, Net Worth
Matt Cross has become a notable player in college basketball, especially since the introduction of NIL opportunities and his frequent movements within the transfer portal. Understanding these facets of his career sheds light on both his financial pursuits and professional decisions.
What NIL Deals Does Matt Cross Have?
Matt Cross has taken advantage of the NIL landscape to secure various endorsement deals.
These partnerships allow him to profit from his name, image, and likeness, a shift that has significantly impacted college athletics.
Schools and local businesses, especially in the Dallas area, have sought to collaborate with him, recognizing his growing presence in the basketball community.
Beyond local endorsements, Cross may explore opportunities with larger brands, which is common for athletes with his profile.
NIL money has dramatically reshaped college basketball, providing athletes with opportunities to profit from their talent.
How Much Is Matt Cross Making in NIL?
The exact figures for Matt Cross’s NIL earnings are not publicly disclosed.
However, athletes with similar profiles can earn anywhere from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars annually. Much depends on the deals they sign and their marketability.
Cross’s previous performances at UMass, where he averaged 15.3 points and 8.3 rebounds last season, make him an appealing choice for brands.
As he builds his reputation at SMU, his NIL income could increase if he continues to excel on the court.
Insights into how NIL money has affected college sports can be found in various analyses of the current landscape.
Has Matt Cross Used the Transfer Portal?
Yes, Matt Cross has used the transfer portal multiple times.
After starting his college career at Miami, he transferred to Louisville and then to UMass. Most recently, he transferred to SMU, showcasing his ability to adapt to new environments.
Each move represented strategic decisions aimed at career advancement.
With the NCAA’s current transfer rules, athletes like Cross can find favorable situations that align with their academic and athletic goals. His transfers highlight the growing trend of athletes proactively seeking the best opportunities for their futures.
What Is Matt Cross’ Net Worth?
As of 2024, Matt Cross’s net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 and $1 million. This figure reflects his growing presence in college basketball as well as his ventures outside of sports.
Matt Cross gained attention as a standout player during his time at UMass. He was selected for the Atlantic 10 First-Team and received recognition as an NABC All-District selection.
These honors contribute to his marketability and potential earnings.
Before joining UMass, Cross was a four-star recruit at Louisville. This background adds to his profile and value in the sports arena.
In addition to his basketball career, Cross is active on social media platforms. His presence on TikTok has also opened avenues for sponsorships and partnerships.
This can significantly boost his overall earnings.
The combination of his athletic achievements and online popularity makes Matt Cross a player to watch. As he transfers to SMU, his financial prospects may increase with new opportunities in a larger market.