In a somber announcement on Saturday, the family of basketball icon Samboy Lim revealed the heartbreaking news of his passing at the age of 61, sharing the sad update on his official Facebook page.
Known affectionately as “The Skywalker,” Lim etched his name into the annals of Philippine basketball history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. The 6’0 high-flyer embarked on his illustrious career with the San Miguel Beermen, amassing an impressive nine PBA championships and earning the distinction of being a five-time PBA All-Star.
Lim’s prowess on the court earned him a spot among the PBA’s Top 25 greatest players, a testament to his skill, athleticism, and enduring impact on the league. Recognized twice as a member of the PBA’s Mythical Second Team, Lim was enshrined in the PBA Hall of Fame in 2009, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Before his stellar professional career, Lim showcased his talents as a collegiate player for San Juan De Letran, playing a pivotal role in securing three consecutive championships (1982-1984) in the NCAA. His standout performance earned him the title of Most Valuable Player in 1984.
Lim’s contributions weren’t confined to the local stage; he proudly donned the Philippine colors in international competitions. A key member of the national team, Lim played a vital role in clinching gold at the 1983 and 1985 Southeast Asian Games’ 5×5 basketball tournaments. He also played a crucial role in securing gold at the 1984 FIBA Asia Champions Cup and the 1985 FIBA Asia Championship.
Born on April 1, 1962, Lim’s career was marked by his flashy and athletic play style, earning him the iconic moniker of Skywalker. Unfortunately, his journey was marred by injuries, culminating in a health scare during a PBA Legends Exhibition Game in November 2014, where he suffered a heart attack. Since then, he had been under constant medical care.
In their official statement, the Lim family expressed gratitude to those who stood by Samboy during his final moments. Fr. Franklin Beltran, the former chaplain of Letran – Lim’s alma mater – administered his last rites.
Samboy Lim is survived by his former spouse, Darlene Marie Berberabe, and their only child, Jamie Lim. Jamie, following in her father’s footsteps, is an accomplished athlete, securing a SEA Games Gold medal and graduating summa cum laude from the University of the Philippines. As the basketball community mourns the loss of a true legend, Samboy Lim’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of aspiring athletes.