The 6-foot-10 Fil-Cypriot suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear during Toledo’s game against Oakland back on November 26, 2020, which led him to sit out for 443 days.

However, it was a sweet return for Aj as Toledo defeated Illinois with a comeback of the former who logged a point, a rebound, and a steal.

Toledo advanced to 20-5 overall and 12-2 in the league with the recent victory.

It was all thanks to RayJ Dennis’  22 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, Ryan Rollins also ignited 22 points and seven boards, and JT Shumate delivered 20 points.

Toledo’s superiority was obviously evident as they grabbed control in the first half, leading 53-35.

“We were able to get some separation in the first half and that was a big key for us,” said coach Tod Kowalczyk. “When we get some stops and score in transition we can be really good. We just need to remain humble, hungry and healthy and keep getting better.”

The Rockets will look to retain their dominance when they return to play on Wednesday (Manila time) against Kent State.