The University of the Philippines (UP) has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of its Nigerian basketball recruit, Israel Osamudiame Friday.
The 19-year-old collapsed during a practice session on Tuesday inside the Varsity Training Centre in Diliman and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Friday, who would have turned 20 on September 6, was among the newest signings for the UP Fighting Maroons.
Confirming the tragedy, Bo Perasol, Director of the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development, stated that the university community was devastated.
“UP is heartbroken to confirm that one of our newest recruits, Israel Osamudiame, collapsed during practice yesterday. He was immediately brought to a nearby hospital where, despite the efforts of medical personnel, he passed away,” Perasol said in a statement.
He added, “UP is in close contact with his family and is extending its full support during this difficult time. The university asks everyone to respect the privacy of his family, as they grieve this tragic loss.”
Standing at 6-foot-10, Friday was a promising forward from Abuja, Nigeria. He recently transferred to UP from Centro Escolar University (CEU), where he starred for the Scorpions in the University and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL).
Though he was set to undergo a one-year residency before competing in UAAP Season 89, his height, athleticism, and skills had already positioned him as one of the most exciting young frontcourt prospects in Philippine collegiate basketball.
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