AJ Edu was a steady presence down low for Gilas PIlipinas as they beat Iraq to enter the qualification phase for a quarterfinal slot in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025.
AJ Edu had an additional motivation to help Gilas Pilipinas come up with a 66-57 win over Iraq in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Saturday, Aug. 9. (Manila time)
As it turned out, the 25-year-old Cyprus-born cager’s parents was present to watch their son and his fellow Filipino dribblers at the King Abdullah Sports City.
“It was really nice to have my parents in the crowd. It definitely motivated me,” said Edu, who finished with nine points, seven rebounds, an assist, three steals and two blocks.
“They’re the reason I made it this far. Just proud to represent my mom's country in front of her. That was a blessing.”
[RELATED STORY: Dwight Ramos stars as Gilas breaks through vs Iraq, keeps QF hopes alive in FIBA Asia Cup]
Edu's parents witnessed Gilas nab its first win after heartbreaking losses to Chinese Taipei and New Zealand to continue their quest in the qualification for a quarterfinal slot in the continental meet.
Gilas sits at third place in Group D with a 1-2 record behind the Taiwanese and the Kiwis, who are both unbeaten at 2-0.
[RELATED STORY: With JB limited, Dwight Ramos steps up as Gilas logs 1st win vs Iraq in FIBA Asia Cup]
The Filipinos will face the no. 2 seed in Group C, which could either be Jordan or host Saudi Arabia.
“It’s a good feeling. We’ve been on a bit of a losing streak, so it’s nice to just change that with a win,” said the 6-foot-10 forward.
“I think this was a nice one because it’s a real team effort. Everyone stepped up, especially defensively, so I'm really happy with the win.”