UP Fighting Maroons mourn passing of recruit Israel Friday

The University of the Philippines on Wednesday announced the death of new Fighting Maroons recruit Israel Osamudiame Friday. He was 19.

According to a statement by the UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development (OASD), Friday passed away after collapsing in practice last Tuesday. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital but passed away despite efforts from medical personnel.

Friday would have turned 20 on September 6.

The 6-foot-10 Friday recently transferred to join the defending UAAP champions after spending the past season with Centro Escolar University at the University and Colleges Athletic League (UCAL).

According to UP, the exact cause of his death has yet to be determined, but said it is in close contact with his family during this time.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News