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PBA legend Samboy Lim's teammate Chip Engelland, sports analyst Joaquin Henson visit him in the hospital

By NICK GARCIA Published Sep 11, 2023 5:34 pm

Filipino basketball legend Samboy Lim's former American teammate paid him a visit in the hospital, where Samboy undergoes regular treatment since falling into a coma in 2014.

In a Facebook post on Sept. 11, Samboy's verified account, managed by his wife Lelen Berberabe-Lim, said her husband got a visit from Chip Engelland and sports analyst Joaquin Henson last Sept. 9.

Lelen said Chip shared with Samboy stories on how his and Allan Caicdic's addition to the Philippine team proved to be vital for the country's victory against the United States during the Jones Cup in 1985.

"Chip was most gracious in his praise and love for Sam, and even attested to his kindness, humility, sportsmanship," the post read. "Sam was awake all throughout but had his eyes closed most of the time."

Lelen noted how Samboy tried to open his eyes and was crying, as he was "listening intently... overwhelmed by love and much appreciation." He continued crying as Chip and Joaquin said their goodbyes.

"Seeing this pure and sincere love, we were all in tears. Samboy, we hope you feel how much you are loved and admired, we hope that you get better so that you will continue to feel this much love!" the post read.

Chip also penned a message to Samboy, saying, “We all got together and we couldn’t stop talking about you! We are not a team without you, and we love you so much."

Chip serves as assistant coach for Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association. He's also a naturalized Filipino citizen during his stint with the Philippine team under the sponsorship of Northern Cement Corporation.

Samboy is known for his flashy yet daring plays on court, sustaining multiple injuries over the course of his career. In November 2014, he collapsed after an exhibition game and fell into a coma. He regained consciousness in January 2015, and has since been receiving treatment.