AJ Edu made a huge impression in his seniors debut for Gilas Pilipinas, doing so in the world stage while going up against an NBA All-Star in Karl-Anthony Towns.
The 23-year-old Edu tallied seven points, five rebounds, and two blocks in 27 minutes of action in the Philippines’ 87-81 defeat to Dominican Republic on Friday night in the 2023 Fiba World Cup co-hosts' opening game at the Philippine Arena.
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Edu said playing his first game for the national senior team is a big blessing in itself after the two ACL tears he suffered during his college career with Toledo in the US NCAA.
“For me, it was a huge blessing to be out there,” said Edu, who last played for the national team during his teenage years during the 2019 Fiba Under-19 World Cup.
“For those of you who know my history, you know that I’ve gone through a lot of injuries since the last time I represented Gilas. Just to do it on a stage like this, to be competing at this level was a huge blessing.”
Playing against Towns was the icing on the cake.
Edu held his own against the Minnesota Timberwolves star, but eventually, Towns showed what he is one of the best big men in the world when he finished with 26 points and 10 rebounds in the victory.

“It’s kind of a surreal feeling playing against him,” said Edu. “You watch him on TV, seeing him at the All-Star Game, seeing him being the No. 1 pick. But those are the sorts of challenges that I love. That’s why I play the game of basketball, to play in front of a crowd like that, a challenge like that.”
Towns had positive things to say about Edu who he said was a “fantastic player” and an “ultimate competitor.”
“Love the competition he brought tonight. Makes me better,” said Towns.
Edu said facing someone like Towns motivate him to raise the bar.
“I love the opportunity. I love playing every minute against him. Ultimately, that’s the level I want to aim one day. It was a great experience,” said the incoming Japan B.League Asian import.
When told about Towns’ comments, Edu said: “That’s awesome. That’s the whole point. I want to compete with his class especially if that’s the level that I’m aspiring for one day. I have to compete.”
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