Nagasaki Velca's AJ Edu. Japan B.League/file
MANILA, Philippines – AJ Edu is ready for a heavier load with Gilas Pilipinas as Kai Sotto continues to recover from a knee injury.
Sotto tore his anterior cruciate ligament in January this year during a Koshigaya Alphas' game in the Japan B.League and eventually underwent surgery.
Edu, with Sotto out for the upcoming 2025 FIBA Asia Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, expressed his readiness to be the next man up.
However, he also pointed out that it will take the whole team to make up for the absence of a player, with Sotto being an especially "tough loss" for Gilas.
"With Kai out, that's a tough loss for us, and I'm really hoping that he can come back soon," said Edu.
"[We're] constantly in communication with him about his recovery. But yeah, definitely, not just me, but all of us as a team have to step up when one of the star players is out," he added.
"But yeah, for sure, on my end, I have to step up as well."
READ: Gilas coach concerned over injury woes ahead of FIBA Asia Cup
Edu said he's trying to reach peak form following the conclusion of the Japan B.League months ago.
"It's been off-season for a couple of months now, so yeah, just trying to get back in 100% game shape, getting ready for this upcoming tournament," he said.
The 25-year-old expressed pride in donning the national tri-colors once more.
"It's always such a blessing and such an honor to represent the national team, and I don't take it for granted."
The Philippines is grouped with Chinese Taipei, New Zealand, and Iraq in Group D at the Asia Cup.
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