AJ Edu is joining his third team in as many years in Japan.
The Gilas Pilipinas center has linked up with Gunma Crane Thunders for the 2024-25 Japan B.League season, giving him a fresh start in the Land of the Rising Sun.
“I’m very happy to be a part of such a great club as Gunma Crane Thunders. I’m excited to start this new chapter here in Gunma, and I can’t wait to meet you all,” he said in a statement released by the team on Monday.
“I will do my best on the court and fight with all my heart to help the team win. I hope all the fans will give me a warm welcome. And let’s create a special season together!”
Edu, 25, has established himself as one of the top defensive bigs in the league, netting 6.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks to go with his 5.6 points and 1.0 assist.
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With him manning the middle, Nagasaki Velca were a tough draw for the field even if they finished with a 26-34 record.
Still, there’s no question on the abilities of Edu, one that Gunma is banking on to be a defensive cog down low.
The Crane Thunders made a lot of noise last season, ending up at sixth place with a 39-21 slate to make it to the quarterfinals.
However, they would fall to no. 3 San-En NeoPhoenix in the best-of-three quarterfinals.
Parks back with Osaka Evessa
Ray Parks will be back for another go-round with Osaka Evessa as he was re-signed for the 2024-25 Japan B.League season.
The team made the announcement on Monday, welcoming the Filipino import back.
PHOTO: Osaka Evessa Instagram
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“I am looking forward to playing another year in Osaka. Osaka is a great city with amazing culture. We improved last year but there is still more work to be done. I’m excited to see the fans and my teammates,” he said in a statement.
“I’m happy to be able to play in Osaka next season. I think Osaka is a wonderful city with a fascinating culture. Last season, we at Osaka Evessa were able to grow as a team, but we still have room to improve and step up. I look forward to seeing all of our fans, boosters and teammates again.”
Parks averaged 13.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in his first year with the Evessa, establishing himself as a reliable marksman as they finished the season with a 29-31 card.
It’s the latest in the life of Parks who got married to vlogger Zeinab Harake just last week.
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