The University of the Philippines (UP) has confirmed the death of Nigerian student-athlete Israel Osamudiamen Friday, who collapsed during men’s basketball team practice on Tuesday, August 19. He was 19 years old and would have turned 20 on September 6.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the UP Office of Athletics and Sports Development said Friday was immediately taken to a nearby hospital after collapsing, but “despite the efforts of medical personnel, he passed away.”
“The University of the Philippines is heartbroken to confirm that one of the newest recruits of its men’s basketball team, Israel Osamudiame Friday from Abuja, Nigeria, collapsed during practice last Tuesday,” the statement read.

UP added that the exact cause of death has not yet been determined. The university said it is in close contact with the player’s family and is providing support.
“UP is in close contact with his family and is extending its full support during this difficult time. The exact cause of his death is still being determined, and the university asks everyone to respect the privacy of his family, as they grieve this tragic loss,” it said.

Friday, a 6-foot-10 centre, joined UP after transferring from Centro Escolar University (CEU), where he played for the Scorpions in the Universities and Colleges Athletic League.

His passing comes two months after another student-athlete, 18-year-old Ashlyn Abong of National University and Gilas Pilipinas Youth, also collapsed and died during basketball training.