Nigerian basketball player dies during training

Tragedy struck at the University of the Philippines (UP) as a Nigerian student-athlete, Israel Osamudiame Friday, suddenly passed away during a basketball practice session.

According to multiple reports from the Philippines, the 19-year-old collapsed while training with his team, the UP Fighting Maroons, on Tuesday, August 19. Efforts to resuscitate him proved unsuccessful.

Israel, who would have celebrated his 20th birthday on September 6, was one of the team’s newest recruits and was seen as a promising addition to the squad before his untimely death.

In an official statement released and published on the Filipino outlet Spin.ph, Bo Perasol, director of the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development, confirmed the sad news.

“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,” Mr Perasol said.

Friday, a towering 6-foot-10 forward from Abuja, Nigeria, had only recently joined the Fighting Maroons after transferring from Centro Escolar University (CEU), where he starred for the Scorpions in the University and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL).

He was expected to sit out a one-year residency period before becoming eligible to compete in UAAP Season 89.

Witnesses said the deceased was an active participant in the team’s workout inside the Varsity Training Centre in Diliman when he suddenly collapsed.

The team’s physical therapists immediately administered first aid before rushing him to a nearby hospital, but he was later pronounced de@d.

The exact cause of his de@th has not yet been determined, as medical authorities continue their examinations.

Mr Perasol added that the school community is devastated and will continue to stand by the player’s loved ones during this painful time.

“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,” he stated.

Friday was regarded as one of the most promising young frontcourt talents in the Philippines’ collegiate basketball scene. His height, skill set, and athleticism made him a key acquisition for UP as they looked to strengthen their roster ahead of future campaigns.