The University of the Philippines (UP) community has been plunged into mourning following the sudden passing of Israel Osamudiame Friday, a promising Nigerian basketball player and one of the Fighting Maroons’ newest recruits.
According to reports from multiple Philippine outlets, the 19-year-old collapsed during a team practice session on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the immediate efforts of medical staff, he was later pronounced dead. Friday would have turned 20 on September 6.
In an official statement released via Spin.ph, Bo Perasol, director of the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (OASD), confirmed the heartbreaking 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.”
A Rising Talent
Standing at 6-foot-10, Friday hailed from Abuja, Nigeria, and was widely regarded as one of the most promising young frontcourt talents in Philippine collegiate basketball. Before joining UP, he starred for Centro Escolar University (CEU) in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL). His transfer to the Fighting Maroons marked a major addition to the roster, though he was expected to sit out a one-year residency before competing in UAAP Season 89.
Witnesses at the Varsity Training Centre in Diliman reported that Friday was actively participating in the workout session when he suddenly collapsed. UP’s physical therapists administered first aid on site before rushing him to the hospital. The exact cause of his death remains undetermined, pending further medical examinations.
Outpouring of Grief
Perasol emphasized that the entire UP community is deeply shaken and committed to supporting Friday’s loved ones during this time of grief.
“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.”
A Life Cut Short, A Legacy Remembered
Friday’s height, skill, and athleticism made him a key acquisition for the Fighting Maroons as they looked to build for the future. Though his journey in Philippine collegiate basketball has been cut short, his impact on teammates, coaches, and fans is already evident.
His passing serves as a painful reminder of both the fragility of life and the importance of athlete health and safety in competitive sports.
The UP community—and the wider basketball world—will remember Israel Osamudiame Friday not just for his towering presence on the court, but for the promise of a career and life gone far too soon.
