The Skywalker of the Filipino basketball, Avelino “Samboy” Lim, passed away, his family confirmed on Saturday, December 23, 2023.
On his official Facebook page, Lim’s family announced the passing of the Filipino basketball legend nine years after he survived a five-week coma in 2014.
“Our Hearts are broken. Today, December 23, 2023, our dearly beloved Samboy passed away peacefully. A man of Faith, exceptional courage, humility and grace. He embodied the very best of humanity. The Skywalker was 61,” the Lim family statement reads.
“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 loved ones abroad: sister Ate Coy – Maricor, Dan, and niece, Danielle together with Jun Zarate, Coach Larry Albano bade Samboy goodbye via online chat. Lelen’s siblings: Gigi, Dixon, family and friends: Manang Marilyn, Tino Pinat, Jimmy Go were also able to bid him farewell,” they added.
They also thanked the doctors, and medical staff who took care of the basketball legend in the past 9 years.
Samboy is a four-time PBA All-star and a two-time Mythical Second Team selection. He was also part of the San Miguel Beer’s Grand Slam team of 1989. He was also a gold medalist during the 1987 FIBA Asia Championship.