Philippine basketball legend Samboy Lim passed away at age 61. This was confirmed on his official Facebook page on December 23, 2023. 

The post reads:

"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.

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.

Father Franklin Beltran (former Letran Chaplain) was able to administer the Last Rites Extreme Unction.

We thank Samboy’s amazing team of doctors headed by Dr. Luigi Segundo, physical therapists, nurses, caregivers, family and friends who, for the last 9 years, took excellent care of him.

Please pray for Samboy. He needs our prayers as we commend his soul to the loving arms of our Lord God. Please have mercy on Samboy and grant him everlasting peace. Amen

Heaven gained an angel just in time for Christmas. We love you Samboy, thank you for loving all of us unconditionally … no more pain nor suffering! Goodbye for now …… you will be in our hearts forever ."

CHAMPION

A nine-time champion in the Philippine Basketball Association, “The Skywalker” first showcased his wares in the National Collegiate Athletic Association where he won a championship in each of the three years he played basketball for Colegio de San Juan de Letran. He was also a Most Valuable Player awardee.

He also represented the national team colors multimple times. He was part of the 1985 RP team that won the gold in the FIBA Asia Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He also won silver and bronze in the Asian games in 1990 and 1986, respectively.

Lim collapsed when he suffered from a heart attack during an exhibition game before slipping into a coma November 18, 2014. He regained consciousness in January of 2015.