Anyang Jeonggwanjang Red Boosters lost 79-94 in the 2023-2024 EASL (East Asian Super League) Final Four semifinal match against the Seoul SK Knights at Lapurapu Hoops Dome in Cebu, Philippines on the 8th. 토토사이트 추천
The loudest roar in the game was also the appearance of Lens Abando. Abando was the only Filipino player among the participants.
As a member of the Philippines national team who played in basketball World Cup, Abando was very popular in his country. He had already arrived at Cebu Airport and traveled a lot of people there, delaying his arrival time. Reporters also said, "When I came across Jeongbu's team while traveling from Cebu, Abando was always greeted and asked for photos by local fans.
Abando's popularity was felt even in the game. From the time Abando was deployed to the timing of catching the ball to the success of the shot, there was a loud cheer. It is not an exaggeration to say that the match was played in a foreign country, but it felt like a home game in the Jeonggwanjang.
Even among enthusiastic Philippine fans, there was someone who stood out. Raymond, who came to the stadium with a cheer pool for the peninsula, was a long-time fan of the peninsula.
The words "Gilas High Flyer" and "Rhenz Air Abando My Idol" were written on the cheer pool. This is where you can see the affection for Abando.
Raymond said, "I've seen you grow since you were a kid. To us, Abando is like an idol. I like him because he is not arrogant and humble. I love him more because he plays hard and has such a good mindset."
On the day, he scored 11 points including a three-point shot, doing his part. It was unclear whether he would play or not due to a broken lumbar spine, but he was very competitive in front of his fans. He was very determined.
"When I first heard about his injury, I was very worried. But I was really happy to hear that he is playing in this tournament, and I am very happy to watch his game now," Raymond said.
Raymond also plans to visit Korea to see the play of the Abando. Meanwhile, the EASL Final Four, an international competition that determines the strongest player in East Asia, was held in Cebu, making it possible to see the image of Abando playing in his country vividly. Even during an interview with a reporter, he said he wanted to take pictures with Abando.
"I was going to go to Korea and watch the KBL game of Abando and other countries' games together. But I'm really grateful and happy that the team of Abando can come and watch the game like this. If I have any wish, my wish is to take a picture with Abando," he said with a smile.
Except for Abando, there are players who have ties to the Philippines in the articles of association. Jamil Wilson, who played in the Philippine League before joining the articles of association. Mr. Raymond already knew about Wilson.
"Jamil Wilson played for a team in Manila and watched all the games back then. It's nice to see you again," Raymond said.
Finally, Raymond gave encouragement to Abando. He supported Abando for being humble and doing his best.
Raymond said, "I always support Abando no matter where I play. I really like him because he works hard and I hope he continues to show that kind of play."