By Reuben Terrado
Photo Credit: Jaime Campos
AFTER a stint with Adamson was aborted last season, Fil-American Bruce Edwards said playing college basketball in the Philippines remained an option for him.
Edwards, 18, returned to the country to play in the NBTC National High School Championship Division 1, impressing a lot of scouts with his fine play for Filam Sports USA.
Last summer, Edwards was part of a batch of Fil-foreign players that included Jerrick Ahanmisi brought in to reinvigorate the Falcons' floundering program under Franz Pumaren.
The Fil-Am big man had, in fact, already played for the Adamson seniors squad in offseason tournaments before suddenly deciding to go back to the United States.
Upon his return, the 6-foot-5 Edwards said playing in his mother's native land is still an option.
“It’s a good consideration,” said Edwards. “I’m going to talk to my mom about coming to the Philippines.”
Edwards said his priority is to get to a school where he can get a quality education. He also has to decide if he's ready to stay away from his family, which is based in Central New Jersey.
“Finding the right fit, the schools, getting a good education, and just being away from home. It’s a big thing right now,” said Edwards.
Even though he decided not to stay at Adamson, Edwards said he is grateful to the Falcons and head coach Franz Pumaren for giving him the opportunity.
“Coach Franz came to my school and recruited me. I’m thankful to him. He was the first one to introduce me to Philippine basketball. I was here last summer and just looking at the school and the team, they really have a good group of young guys,” said Edwards.
Edwards gave a good account of himself in the NBTC National High School Championship, playing well enoguh to gain a spot in the Division 1 All-Star Game on Thursday.
Edwards said his return to the US after the Adamson stint is proving to be a blessing in disguise.
“Right now, I’m taking my time with the recruiting process. Me taking a year opened up to other schools who can look at me. I’m just open-minded right now. I’m more focused on tournaments,” said Edwards.
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