They might be rivals on the court but they are still part of one huge basketball fraternity and surely no one would want to see a brother – Barangay Ginebra captain LA Tenorio – battle a big challenge in his life alone.

Players and basketball personalities take to social media to express support for LA Tenorio

Prayers and well wishes immediately poured through the social media after the veteran playmaker disclosed that he was diagnosed with a stage 3 colon cancer and has already undergone surgery to start his treatment.

For 17 years, Tenorio was a picture of strength, durability and resilience, playing for both his team in the PBA and the national team, that’s why the news of his illness came like a shock that sent chills down to the spine of those who knew and love him.

But those people are also the ones who knew full well that Tenorio has the brave and strong heart to weather the biggest storm to his life yet.

“Dasal lang tol, kaya yan! Ikaw pa ang lakas mo na tao. Kaya ka nga #ironman eh. Dito lang kami ‘tol, madami nagmamahal sayo at nag dadasal!! Pagaling at palakas ka L.A. Tenorio.  See you soon sa laro ng PBA!,” said PBA rival and long-time Gilas Pilipinas teammate Marc Pingris through a post on his personal Facebook page.

Tenorio’s Gilas teammates Andray Blatche and Gabe Norwood also joined the prayers for their court general.

“Keeping you in my prayers bro get well soon @la_tenorio,” wrote Blatche while posting a photo of Tenorio on his Instagram page.

“Prayers pouring in for my guy @LA_Tenorio,” Norwood tweeted.

Sharing countless battles on the court, fellow veteran and San Miguel guard Chris Ross also expressed his support to his brother.

“Praying for you brother!! I know you got this!! You're a warrior bro! We are all in your corner!,” tweeted Ross.

Well-loved in and outside the court, fans and basketball personalities alike believe Tenorio can overcome this and return to playing because he cannot be PBA’s Iron Man for nothing

“That was really shocking news and painful to hear. Get well soon brother @LA_Tenorio rooting for you! Prayers,” said CSB coach Charles Tiu.

“Sending prayers and good vibrations to our beloved Ironman @LA Tenorio. I love you brother!,” added Ginebra teammate Jared Dillinger.