Letran, NCAA, and the PBA came together to honor the late Avelino ‘Samboy’ Lim, Jr., who passed away on December 23 at the age of 61.
Letran, Lim’s alma mater, poured out their grief in a statement that captured the essence of his impact on Philippine sports.
The college prayed for the eternal repose of his soul and acknowledged Lim as a beloved Letran Knight whose brilliance on the court had left an indelible mark.
“Our hearts mourn the loss of a true icon. Rest in peace, Letran Knight Samboy,” the statement concluded.
The NCAA, where Lim achieved glory with three championships and a Most Valuable Player title in 1984, joined the collective remembrance.
NCAA Management Committee chairperson Paul Supan, representing Season 99 host Jose Rizal University, spoke eloquently about Lim’s exemplary athletic journey.
“He was an inspiration and a model for most, if not all, who have seen him play,” Supan stated, acknowledging Samboy’s influence from his NCAA days to his contributions in the national team and the professional league.
The PBA, the zenith of Lim’s illustrious career, mourned the loss of ‘the Skywalker’ in a heartfelt tribute.
The league recognized Lim’s remarkable skills that electrified the court and endeared him to fans nationwide.
His legacy, described as spanning generations, contributed significantly to the popularity and growth of the PBA.
The farewell message encapsulated the sentiment: “Samboy, may you fly high and free like the Skywalker you were known to be.”
His remains will be at Colegio de San Juan de Letran chapel on December 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
He will be moved to Arlington Memorial Chapels on December 27 to 28.
