AHMEDABAD (India) - Representing the Philippines internationally has not only given Aidan Dayco-Green the opportunity to fulfill his own dream, but to live out what his older brother wasn't able to do in the past.
The sweet-shooting winger has emerged as an important piece of Gilas Youth in the ongoing FIBA U18 Asia Cup 2026 and that's partly because he's competing with an extra push, with his 'kuya' Liam in mind.
"I'm glad to come in and be able to do it for the both of us," he said Thursday shortly after leading the SEABA champions past Syria by way of a 72-63 decision to book a ticket to the Quarter-Finals. "It's an honor."
If that surname sounds familiar, that's because you have probably heard or read about it around 2022.
Liam, still in high school back then, was supposed to be part of the Philippine team bound for the FIBA U18 Asia Cup of that year in Iran, as a member of a batch led by Mason Amos and mentored by Josh Reyes.
It was quite unfortunate, however, that scheduling conflicts stood in his way. He was attending Prolific Prep in the United States at the time, spoiling what could have been his maiden appearance with Gilas Youth.
That batch did manage to reach the Quarter-Finals before finishing sixth with a 4-2 card and although it was respectable, some can't help but ask how different things could've gone had Liam been able to play.
"It's unfortunate that he couldn't represent the Philippines," lamented Aidan.
Four years later, it's Aidan who's turned Liam's dream into a reality, and he's been proving himself worthy.
In their conquest of Syria, he finished with a personal-best 18 points, leading the third-quarter turnaround in which he scored the first five of a 9-0 run to give themselves a 51-44 lead entering the deciding period.
"I think, just working hard. I love the game, so just competing and trying to win for my team in any way I can," said the Fil-Canadian hooper, who also collected 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in the win.
So far, he's averaging 12.3 points on a 55.9-percent clip from the floor, 2.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and a steal, playing a key role in Coach Juno Sauler's scheme of things that rely on speed and efficient shooting.
"Some would say the Philippines lack size, but I think that's our biggest advantage against bigger teams - playing fast, getting paint touches, and kicking out and having the confidence to knock down the three," he said.
With the way he's been delivering, the Spire Academy stalwart is hoping that he's making Liam beam with pride.
"I think he feels pretty good. I'm gonna give him a call. He's proud of me, and I'm proud of him," offered the 1.95 M (6'5") Aidan with a smile. "He's someone that I really look up to."
FIBA