Manny takes time out for hoops

Manny Pacquiao is gaining a reputation as an all-around athlete.

He’s not only a two-time world boxing champion but also a serious pool player. And don’t forget, Pacquiao has a passion for basketball, too.Pacquiao plays hoops like he fights in the ring–never say die. He’s all over the court, hustling, diving for loose balls, sacrificing his body to take the charge, driving strong to the hole, outjumping taller players for the rebound and scoring any way possible. Defenders back off when he makes his move with the ball. Nobody dares to mess with Pacquiao.

Former world heavyweight and lightheavyweight champion Roy Jones is another fighter who loves to play basketball. He owns a United States Basketball League team and of course, has a spot on the roster. But Pacquiao plays at a higher competitive level than Jones.

Pacquiao will showcase his cage prowess as playing assistant coach and team manager of his own Pacman squad in the Metro General Santos Basketball Association championships on June 3-22 at the Lagao Gym. He’s donating P300,000 to defray expenses for the tournament sponsored by the Emmanuel Pacquiao Foundation and the General Santos City government.

There are 13 teams participating in the meet which General Santos City Mayor Pedro Acharon is endorsing. Among the entries are the North Cotabato Braves of Gov. Manny Piñol, the Cagayan de Oro All-Stars and a selection from Digos, Davao del Sur.

Tournament director Clem Asencio, chairman of the General Santos Youth and Sports Board, said Pacquiao is tapping a well-known Cebu coach to call the shots for the Pacman team. Pacquiao is also recruiting former pros Bonel Balingit and Zaldy Realubit as reinforcements.

Pacquiao and his Filipino trainer Buboy Fernandez were recently awarded plaques of recognition by the General Santos municipal government at halftime of a Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) road outing in the city. Before the late afternoon game, Pacquiao saw action in the preliminary. And to prepare for the contest, he scrimmaged with PBA commissioner Noli Eala, PBA technical manager Perry Martinez, PBA marketing manager Jude Turcuato, ex-PBA player Peter Martin and Waterfront Hotel president Patrick Gregorio that morning.