Ex-PBA player Joey Mente passes away at 42

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Former PBA player Joey Mente passed away Wednesday after a battle with cancer. He was 42.

Mente, who played in the PBA from 2001 to 2008 with San Miguel and Welcoat, now Rain or Shine, was fondly remembered by his fellow players in the league.

Jimmy Alapag, Don Allado, coach Allan Gregorio, and Vince Hizon were among those who expressed their sadness and sympathy through their respective social media accounts.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones,” said Alapag through his Twitter account.

The 5-foot-9 Mente made his name through his high-flying athleticism, winning the 2001 Slam Dunk contest.

“Rest in paradise Joey Ments. It will always be memorable for me competing against you, your flare and sportsmanship helped pave the way for others,” said Allado in a tweet.

“Rest in Peace Joey ‘Kuryente’ Mente!” posted PBA legend Vince Hizon on his Facebook page.

“Sad to hear the news of the death of a friend and fellow basketball player idol Joey Mente,” said Mark Andaya. “Few years back, I was just playing against him. He aged but he is a healthy dude, ‘til he got sick.”