2 cage stars wish Pope blessing for Samboy Lim

Two of the biggest names in Philippines basketball yesterday said that in line with Pope Francis’ visit to the country, they will whisper a special prayer for the recovery of close friend Avelino “Samboy” Lim, who is still in a coma after collapsing during a Legends exhibition game last November.

“We, as a country, are special to His Holiness as he included us in his world visit. My wife, Jean, and I had the opportunity to see Pope John Paul II in Rome and the feeling was different,” said Jerry Codiñera, dubbed as the “Defense Minister” during his PBA days.

“Pope Francis is like Pope John Paul because they both love the Philippines.”

The 6-foot-6 Codiñera, now the head coach of the Arellano Chiefs in the NCAA, said that given the chance, he would ask the Pope to say a special prayer for Samboy’s recovery.

Allan Caidic said he would also pray for Lim and added that a special prayer for his friend would be top of his agenda if he gets the chance to meet the Pope.

“I hope that Samboy will recover,” said Caidic, a former PBA MVP. Caidic and Lim both saw action for San Miguel Beer and in several national teams.

Now 51 year old and an assistant coach of the De La Salle Green Archers in the UAAP, Caidic said he would like to ask Pope Francis for prayers so that the Philippines will be spared from natural calamities.

Caidic and Codiñera are both part of the PBA’s 25 Greatest Players.

The duo expressed sadness over what happened to Lim, whose daredevil drives and ability to stay in the air longer earned him the monicker “Skywalker.”

Because of various injuries while playing, Lim didn’t win the MVP award but nevertheless became a member of the PBA Hall of Fame.