SUMAKABILANG-BUHAY na si basketball legend Rosalio “Yoyong” Martires, miyembro ng huling Philippine team na naglaro sa Olympics, nitong Martes, June 18, sa edad na 77.
Inanunsiyo ng anak ni Martires na si Moby Leah nitong Miyerkoles ang pagpanaw ng PBA great na nagkaroon din ng mahabang dekadang career sa show business at politika.
“He was surrounded by his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He lived a very adventurous and colorful life. A loving husband, a doting father, a caring grandpa, a self-made man, an Olympian, a prolific basketball player, a comedian, a devoted public servant, and a child of Christ,” nakasaad sa post ni Moby Leah sa Facebook.
“Difficult steps to follow, indeed. You served God, our country, and your fellow men. Rest in Peace, papa. We love you!”
Nagmula sa Southwestern University sa Cebu, si Martires ay naglaro para sa San Miguel sa now-defunct Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association (MICAA) at sa Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) mula 1972 hanggang 1982.
Tinulungan ng 5-foot-8 guard ang storied franchise na makopo ang unang dalawang PBA titles nito sa 1979 Open Conference at 1982 Invitational Championship.
Sa national team ay kinatawan ni Martires ang bansa sa 1972 Munich Olympics sa Germany, kasama sina fellow legends Bogs Adornado, Manny Paner, at Freddie Webb.
Noong sumunod na taon, pinagharian ni Martires at ng Philippine team ang 1973 ABC Championship (tinatawag ngayon na FIBA Asia Cup) na idinaos sa bansa.
