PBA gives Pacquiao tribute in his return

Manny Pacquiao. AFP FILE PHOTO

RIZAL, Philippines — The PBA honored Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao on Wednesday prior to the game between the Kia Sorento and the Purefoods Star Hotshots at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

The league recognized Pacquiao and was given the game ball by commissioner Chito Salud and Mayor Junjun Ynares at center court.

The game marked Pacquiao’s return as Kia’s playing-coach after missing seven games since suiting up in the season opener last Oct. 19 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

The Sorento won their first game but they haven’t won since, dropping their next seven outings sans Pacquiao, who was then training for his title fight against Chris Algieri in Macau.

The Fighter of the Decade defended his WBO welterweight belt in lopsided fashion.

Kia is currently tied with Grand Slam champion Purefoods at 17 at the end of the first quarter as of posting time with Pacquiao, who is in uniform, yet to enter the game.