MANILA, Philippines — Gilas Pilipinas team manager Richard del Rosario has revealed that they are eagerly anticipating the return of Filipino-Cypriot big man AJ Edu to the national squad, with expectations set for his participation in the second window of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, scheduled for late November.
The cheerful Gilas team official expressed his delight at learning that the 6-foot-10 Edu is now in peak health and has been showcasing impressive performances for the Nagasaki Velca in the highly competitive Japan B.League season.
“First of all, it’s really substantial to know he’s healthy,” Del Rosario emphasized during an interview with One Sports, acknowledging Edu’s absence during the first window last February due to injury.
At that time, the promising young player was recovering from a torn meniscus injury, which he sustained while competing for the Toyama Grouses in the previous B.League season, showcasing his resilience in the face of adversity.
Del Rosario noted that Edu’s remarkable size and athleticism would synergize effectively with 7-foot-3 giant Kai Sotto, especially as Gilas prepares to face formidable regional powerhouse New Zealand on November 21, along with a match against Hong Kong on November 14.
Both games are set to unfold at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, which will serve as a crucial battleground for the national team.
“Right now, he’s healthy and enjoying significant success in the B.League,” Del Rosario remarked. “He’s going to be a major asset, especially when facing formidable teams like New Zealand,” he added.
In Edu’s absence, Ginebra’s Japeth Aguilar stepped in to occupy his role during the FIBA Asia Cup first window and the FIBA World Cup Olympic qualifier last June in Riga, where the national team registered a stunning upset over the host and world powerhouse Latvia during the group stages.
The 24-year-old Edu is making waves in the B.League, currently averaging 7.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks across eight games with Nagasaki, further establishing his potential on the international stage.
Conversely, Sotto is also enjoying a stellar B.League campaign with his new team, Koshigaya Alphas, where he is averaging 14.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.4 blocks per contest, evidencing his growth as a player and a vital part of the national team’s strategy.
“His (Sotto) development is continuing, and he’s gaining immense confidence,” Del Rosario stated. “The capabilities of these two young players are boundless. We’re incredibly excited to have them back,” he concluded.
Presently, Gilas team management is actively coordinating the logistics for the return of both young big men to the country, ensuring a seamless integration into the national training camp.
Del Rosario stressed, “We want to make sure they remain focused on their primary team, and we are in constant communication regarding their timeline to ensure a smooth return,” underlining the team’s dedication to maintaining momentum.
Gilas has successfully defeated Hong Kong and Taiwan during the first window, solidifying a perfect 2-0 record in the FIBA Asia Cup, marking a commendable start for the national squad.
Meanwhile, in local action, Ginebra and TNT are locked in a fiercely competitive PBA Governors’ Cup Finals series, with the Tropang Giga currently leading the series 2-1, showcasing the vibrant basketball culture in the Philippines.
**Interview with Richard del Rosario, Team Manager of Gilas Pilipinas**
**Interviewer:** Good day, Richard! It’s exciting to hear about AJ Edu’s anticipated return to the Gilas Pilipinas squad. How are you feeling about his current condition after overcoming his injury?
**Richard del Rosario:** Thank you! We’re all extremely optimistic about AJ’s return. Knowing that he’s in peak health and performing well in the Japan B.League is fantastic news for us. His hard work and resilience during his recovery from the torn meniscus really paid off.
**Interviewer:** That’s great to hear. How do you think Edu’s presence will impact the team, especially looking ahead to the matches against New Zealand and Hong Kong?
**Richard del Rosario:** AJ brings a unique blend of size and athleticism at 6-foot-10, which complements Kai Sotto wonderfully. Together, they can create mismatches against our opponents. With the tough competition ahead, particularly against New Zealand, having Edu in the lineup gives us a stronger frontcourt and enhances our defensive and offensive capabilities.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned AJ’s success in the B.League—how crucial is it for players to gain experience in international leagues before returning to the national team?
**Richard del Rosario:** It’s incredibly vital. Competing at a high level in the B.League has not only honed AJ’s skills but also his confidence. Players like him who play abroad bring invaluable experience that strengthens our national squad, especially when facing formidable teams.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, you’ve got two crucial games coming up at the Mall of Asia Arena. How does the team feel about playing on home soil?
**Richard del Rosario:** Playing at home is always a huge advantage. We’re looking forward to the support from our fans. Having AJ back, combined with our home-court advantage, will boost team morale. We’re ready to give it our all for our supporters.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Richard! We look forward to seeing how AJ Edu and the Gilas Pilipinas team perform in the upcoming games.
**Richard del Rosario:** Thank you! We appreciate the support and can’t wait to showcase our hard work on the court!
