Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 23) – Philippine basketball icon Samboy Lim died at the age of 61 on Saturday, his family announced on his Facebook page.
Known as “The Skywalker,” Lim was drafted into the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and launched his career with the San Miguel Beermen, eventually becoming a nine-time champion of the league.
The 6’0 high-flyer was named PBA All-Star five times and was part of the league’s Top 25 greatest players.
He was also a two-time member of the PBA’s Mythical Second Team and was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 2009.
As a collegiate player for San Juan De Letran, Lim played a vital role in propelling his team to three consecutive championships (1982-1984) in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). He was named the university league’s Most Valuable Player in 1984.
The Pinoy icon played for the country’s national team on multiple occasions. He was part of the squad that won gold at the 1983 and 1985 Southeast Asian Games’ 5×5 basketball tournaments.
He similarly helped deliver gold for the Philippines, representing the country as part of its championship squads for the 1984 FIBA Asia Champions Cup and the 1985 FIBA Asia Championship.
Born on April 1, 1962, his storied career was marred with injuries as a result of his flashy, athletic play style which earned him the title of Skywalker.
After a PBA Legends Exhibition Game in November 2014, Lim collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. He had suffered a heart attack, and since that health scare had been under constant medical care.
“During his final moments at the Medical City, he was tenderly cared for by Lelen, Jamie, Johannes, sister Malou, nephews AP, Alby & wife Kates, best friends: Allan Caidic & Robert Evangelista,” his family said.
“His loved ones abroad: sister Ate Coy – Maricor, Dan, and niece, Danielle together with Jun Zarate, Coach Larry Albano bade Samboy goodbye via online chat,\” they also said. \”Lelen’s siblings: Gigi, Dixon, family and friends: Manang Marilyn, Tino Pinat, Jimmy Go were also able to bid him farewell.\”
The bereaved family said that Fr. Franklin Beltran, former chaplain of Letran – Lim’s alma mater – gave the Skywalker his last rites.
