The National Collegiate Athletic Association on Sunday paid tribute to the late Avelino “Samboy” Lim, Jr., one of the legendary basketball players the league has produced.
“The NCAA joins the basketball community in remembering the life of Samboy Lim, one of the greatest Filipino basketball players of our time,” said NCAA Management Committee chair Paul Supan of Season 99 host Jose Rizal University.
Supan said Lim, known to all as “The Skywalker” for his magnificent ability to hang into the air longer than anyone, has inspired a lot of aspiring cagers who have seen his exceptional style of play.
During his time with the Letran Knights, Lim helped the Dominican school win a three-peat feat from 1982 to 1984 and earned the highest individual award of all—the MVP—in 1984.
“He was an exemplary athlete from the time he played in the NCAA up to his stint in the national team and in the pros,” said Supan. “He was an inspiration and a model for most, if not all, who have seen him play.
Lim died on Saturday at the age of 61.
“Our Hearts are broken… our dearly beloved Samboy passed away peacefully,” said the statement on the nine-time PBA champion’s status.
Lim, who passed on his athletic prowess to his daughter and karatedo star Jamie Lim, was with relatives and fellow basketball stars, including Allan Caidic, during his final moments at the Medical City.
Lim was survived by his wife, lawyer Lelen Berberabe and Jamie, who has won numerous medals and honors in karatedo.
