ISRAEL Friday, the University of the Philippines' newest recruit, died after one of his first practices as a Fighting Maroon last Tuesday.
He was 19, about to turn 20 on September 6.
"UP is heartbroken to confirm that one of our newest recruits, Israel Osamudiame Friday collapsed during practice yesterday. He was immediately brought to a nearby hospital where, despite the efforts of medical personnel, he passed away," said UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol in a statement.
The 6-foot-10 big from Abuja, Nigeria was an active participant in State U's training inside the Varsity Training Center in Diliman when he collapsed. The team's physical therapists wasted no time administering first aid before taking him to a nearby hospital where he was unfortunately pronounced dead.
The exact cause is still being determined.
"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," added Perasol.
Friday recently transferred from Centro Escolar University, where he starred for the Scorpions in the University and Colleges Athletic League.
He was supposed to sit out one year for residency before being eligible for UAAP Season 89.
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